Sweet viburnum - Viburnum odoratissimum (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Toxic)

Sweet viburnum

Sweet viburnum (Viburnum odoratissimum) is a small tree that is native to Asia, but widely cultivated throughout the globe as an ornamental tree in gardens. This species is considered easy to grow in warm climates but will become damaged in frosty, cold climates.

Scientific classification

Species

Sweet viburnum (Viburnum odoratissimum)

Honeysuckles, moschatels and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

10 m to 15 m

Plant Height

4.5 m to 8 m

Spread

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

Red, Black

Fruit Color

White

Flower Color

Green, Yellow, Orange

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Sweet viburnum

Distribution of Sweet viburnum

Distribution Map

Sweet viburnum is a plant species native to Eastern and Southeastern Asia. It thrives in subtropical regions and has been introduced to other areas with similar climates for ornamental cultivation. Its native range extends across various major regions of Asia, and over time, cultivation has contributed to a broader but controlled presence beyond its original habitat.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woodland garden

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Sweet viburnum has many varieties, suitable for various gardens sites, including flowerbeds in shady or sunny locations. It is available in a variety of flower and berry colors to match many landscape designs. It grows as a shrub or tree with year-round appeal, producing attractive flowers in spring, ornamental berries in the fall, and vibrant orange or red foliage for autumn color.

Symbolism

Thoughts of Heaven

Interesting Facts

Sweet viburnum is a large shrub or small treen grown for ornamental purposes. This large shrub has comparatively tiny flowers which give off a strong but sweet fragrance. Although it is native to Asia, it can be grown as either an evergreen shrub or a deciduous shrub, depending on the climate.

Name Story

Sweet viburnum: Sweet viburnum is also known by its Latin name, Viburnum odoratissimum. The genus name, viburnum, comes from a Latin word which means, to braid. On the other hand, the specific epithet, odoatissimum, refers to the bush’s strong fragrance.

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Quickly Identify Sweet viburnum

Large, leathery leaves with a dark green hue and glossy finish.

Clusters of fragrant, white, funnel-shaped flowers in conical panicles.

Small, spherical drupes starting red and maturing to black, with a single seed.

Oppositely arranged leaves measuring 4-8 inches long and 2-4 inches wide.

Delicate bark with smooth texture, gray to brown color, and thin, layered outer covering.

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Care Guide for Sweet viburnum

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Sweet viburnum originates from subtropical regions and prefers moderate humidity, adapting well to dry spells. It thrives in evenly moist soil with good drought tolerance. Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing slight drying between. Cultivated outdoors, it flourishes with natural moisture levels similar to its native zone.

Fertilize: Sweet viburnum thrives with balanced nutrition, requiring a 10-10-10 fertilizer quarterly, supplemented with high-nitrogen formulas in spring and summer. Use slow-release or water-soluble options, and always water thoroughly post-fertilization. Start with minimal amounts and adjust based on sweet viburnum's growth response.

Pruning: Light pruning of sweet viburnum can occur year-round to remove dead or damaged parts. For shaping, prune in late winter or early spring, cutting no more than 1/3 of severely intermingled branches. Avoid pruning during frost or extreme cold and after flowering but before fruiting.

Propagation: Sweet viburnum propagation involves taking cuttings from healthy stems. After a clean cut, dip in rooting hormone and plant in well-draining soil. Maintain moisture without overwatering, provide indirect light, and cover with plastic to retain humidity until roots develop.

Repotting: Spring repotting enhances growth for sweet viburnum. Biennial repotting supports root health. Select a pot 5-7.5 cm (2-3 in) larger in diameter. Provide consistent moisture, indirect sunlight, and light fertilization for recovery. Sweet viburnum’s resilience facilitates easy post-repotting care during transition.

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Images of Sweet viburnum

Distribution of Sweet viburnum

Culture

Quickly Identify Sweet viburnum

Care Guide for Sweet viburnum

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