Leatherleaf viburnum - Viburnum rhytidophyllum (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Leatherleaf viburnum

Also known as: Wrinkled viburnum

Leatherleaf viburnum (Viburnum rhytidophyllum) is an Asian native flowering plant. It is cultivated as an ornamental plant that is especially popular for shade gardens because It can grow in deep shade.

Scientific classification

Species

Leatherleaf viburnum (Viburnum rhytidophyllum)

Honeysuckles, moschatels and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

4 m

Plant Height

3 m to 4.5 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Red, Black, Burgundy

Fruit Color

White, Cream, Yellow

Flower Color

Silver, Brown, Gray

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Leatherleaf viburnum

Distribution of Leatherleaf viburnum

Distribution Map

Leatherleaf viburnum is native to Eastern Asia and has spread to various parts of Europe and South America. While its cultivation is common, leatherleaf viburnum thrives in these regions, having been introduced through human activity. The plant has established itself across a continental scale, demonstrating its adaptability to new environments. Leatherleaf viburnum's distribution spans from its native Asian ranges to the temperate zones of Europe and the cooler regions of South America.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woodland gardens

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

The evergreen shrub, leatherleaf viburnum has value as a specimen plant for its attractive white blossoms, late fall and winter berries, and year-round green foliage. It does well when grown in shrub gardens mixed with other shrubs or established by itself as a hedge.

Symbolism

Thoughts of Heaven

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Leatherleaf viburnum, including the following common varieties :

Viburnum 'Pragense'

Toxicity

Leatherleaf viburnum is not chemically toxic but causes irritation through small hairs. Contact can lead to rashes; ingestion affects the digestive tract, causing nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Hairs can also be inhaled during pruning, affecting sensitive individuals, leading to severe gastric issues and colic.

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Quickly Identify Leatherleaf viburnum

Leaves are dark green, leathery, and deeply veined with a wrinkled, rugose texture.

Creamy-white flowers in flat-topped cymes, 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) wide with long stamens.

Red fruit matures to black, berry-like drupes of 0.33 inches (0.85 cm) diameter.

Upright shrub grows 6-10 feet (1.8-3 m) tall with a spread of 6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 m).

Stems are gray-brown, pubescent when young, and can reach a thickness of 0.5-1 inch (1.3-2.5 cm).

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Care Guide for Leatherleaf viburnum

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Leatherleaf viburnum thrives in moderately moist soil, requiring watering every 1-2 weeks with slight drying in between. It has moderate drought tolerance and benefits from mulching to retain moisture, especially during the active growing season. Typically grown outdoors for its ornamental value.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, leatherleaf viburnum requires balanced fertilizers in spring and high nitrogen options for foliage. Fertilize twice yearly, avoiding winter applications. Use slow-release formulas and apply around the base for even nutrient distribution, enhancing leatherleaf viburnum's vigor and fruiting potential.

Pruning: Light pruning of leatherleaf viburnum to remove dead or damaged parts can occur year-round. For shaping, prune in late winter or early spring. When managing borders, cut only 1/3 of intermingled branches. Avoid pruning during frost to prevent damage.

Propagation: Leatherleaf viburnum, known for its rugged texture and year-round interest, can be propagated via semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer. These cuttings require several leaf nodes and may benefit from rooting hormone. Use a well-drained medium, and allow several weeks for rooting.

Repotting: For 'leatherleaf viburnum,' a robust shrub reaching 3-4.5 meters (10-15 feet), repot every 2-3 years in spring before new growth. Use a large, deep pot with well-draining soil. Provide partial shade and avoid overwatering post-repot for healthy recovery.

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Images of Leatherleaf viburnum

Distribution of Leatherleaf viburnum

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Leatherleaf viburnum

Care Guide for Leatherleaf viburnum

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