Viburnum cassinoides Lil’ Ditty® (Witherod Viburnum)

Viburnum cassinoides Lil’ Ditty (SMNVCDD) is a compact variety of the native Witherod Viburnum. It is a dwarf version of its parent species, designed for smaller spaces but offering similar visual and ecological appeal.

Viburnum cassinoides Lil’ Ditty®: An In-depth Look

Native: This is a cultivar of Viburnum cassinoides, which is native to North America, particularly the eastern regions.

Plant Type and Habit: Lil’ Ditty is a deciduous shrub with a mounding habit, perfect for small garden spaces or containers.

Size: The plant generally reaches a petite size of 1-2 feet in height and an equal spread, making it a wonderful option for small gardens.

Flowers: It features fragrant white flower clusters that are creamy in color and resemble little snowballs. Expect flowers to appear in late spring to early summer, providing a fresh, light scent to the garden.

Fruits: The flowers are followed by small green berries that turn a beautiful shade of pink and, eventually, blue-black as they ripen. They are on display from late summer through winter.

Foliage: The lush foliage emerges bronze to purple-tinged and turns to dull dark green, providing a dense backdrop that turns a lovely crimson, purple or orange-red in the fall.

Hardiness: It is winter-hardy in USDA zones 3-8, making it versatile in various climatic conditions.

Uses: Because of its small stature, it is ideal for container gardening, small hedges, and inclusion in mixed borders or foundation plantings.

Wildlife: The fruits are a food source for various bird species. Butterflies and bees are also attracted to its fragrant flowers.

Deer and Rabbits: The plant has some deer resistance, though it’s not entirely deer-proof. Rabbit damage is also infrequent.

Toxicity: The berries are ornamental – not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.

Invasiveness: Being a dwarf variety, it is less likely to be invasive.

Benefits: Aside from its beauty and fragrance, it is low-maintenance, can adapt to various soil conditions, and offers valuable habitat and food for local wildlife.

How to Grow and Care for Witherod Viburnum

Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and flower production.

Soil: Thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil. It prefers loams but is adaptable to various soil types, including sandy and clay soils. It tolerates boggy and wet soils but struggles in hot, dry conditions.

Water: Requires moist conditions, with watering more frequent in extreme heat and during establishment.

Fertilizer: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage growth and flowering.

Pruning: Best to prune just after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged branches.

Propagation: Can be propagated by softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer.

Pests and Diseases: No serious insect or disease issues. Keep an eye out for aphids, scale insects, thrips, or viburnum beetle. Occasional disease problems include leaf spot and powdery mildew. Apply appropriate treatments as needed.

These guidelines will help you successfully grow and maintain your Viburnum cassinoides, allowing it to thrive and contribute its many benefits to your garden.