Viburnum × burkwoodii (Burkwood Viburnum)

Wonderfully fragrant, Viburnum × burkwoodii (Burkwood Viburnum) is an upright, multi-stemmed, semi-evergreen shrub with ovate, glossy, dark green leaves that turn maroon in fall, except where evergreen (USDA Zones 7 and 8). In mid-spring, red to dark pink flower buds open to fragrant white flowers tinged with pink and arranged in snowball clusters, 2.5 in. wide (6 cm). Lasting up to 2 weeks, they give way to pendulous clusters of red berries which ripen black in mid to late summer. Hidden by the foliage, the fruits are, however, not particularly showy. Burkwood Viburnum is a cross between Viburnum utile and Viburnum carlesii. To have the best cross-pollination and fruit display plant in groups rather than as specimens. Perfect for the shrub border, as a flowering hedge, or as a handsome specimen.

• Grows up to 8-10 ft. tall (240-300 cm) and 6-7 ft. wide (180-210 cm). Upright oval growth habit when young, becoming more spreading and rounded with age
• A full sun or part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in average, moderately fertile, humus-rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Tolerates a wide range of soil types. Adaptable to poor soils, compacted soils, soils of various pH, heat, drought, and pollution.
• Perfect as a specimen plant or in shrub borders, it makes striking hedges and screens and lovely foundation plantings. A great shrub for the perennial border, too! Plant your Viburnum near high-traffic areas to enjoy its wonderful fragrance.
• Attractive to butterflies, hummingbirds, and birds.
• Low maintenance, this plant has no serious insect or disease problems, but watch for leaf spots and aphids.
• Prune as required immediately after flowering.
• Propagate by softwood cuttings in summer, semi-ripe cuttings from midsummer to fall, or hardwood cuttings in winter.
• Fruit if eaten can cause a mild stomach upset.