Viburnum × bodnantense ‘Dawn’ (Bodnant Viburnum)

Noted for its intensely fragrant, pink flowers, Viburnum x bodnantense ‘Dawn’ is a strong-growing large deciduous shrub prized by most gardeners for its spectacular floral display. Opening from pink buds, clusters of pale rosy-pink flowers with purple-pink anthers appear on the naked stems from late winter to early spring in cold winter areas and from late fall to early spring in warm winter areas. The flowers are followed by fruits that mature from scarlet to black in fall.

This upright, narrow, multi-stemmed shrub sports ovate leaves, which emerge bronze-tinted in spring and mature to emerald green in summer before turning attractive shades of burgundy-red in fall. This plant’s coarse branches and cinnamon-colored bark make a bold statement in the garden. Cut a few branches and bring them indoors, where they will fill the house with their sweet-smelling fragrance!

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 8-10 ft. tall (240-300 cm) and 4-6 ft. wide (120-180 cm)
• A full sun or part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Best flower production in full sun. Provide a sheltered location to help prevent hard freeze damage. Drought tolerant once established.
• Perfect as a specimen plant, in small groupings, as informal hedges, in shrub borders, and in foundation plantings.
• Low maintenance, this plant is generally pest-free. Watch for leaf spot
• Little pruning is needed to maintain an attractive plant. Remove old stems in winter to promote vigorous and productive growth.
• Propagate by softwood cuttings in summer
• Fruit can cause a mild stomach upset.