Viburnum farreri (Farrer Viburnum)

Viburnum farreri is a deciduous shrub known for its fragrant, pinkish-white flowers that bloom in late autumn or early winter. The shrub has a rounded, bushy growth habit and reaches a moderate height, making it ideal for borders, hedges, or as a standalone focal point in gardens.

Viburnum farreri: An In-depth Look

Native: Native to Northern China, Viburnum farreri has adapted well to different parts of the world where it is often grown in gardens and parks.

Plant Type and Habit: It is a deciduous shrub that grows in an upright, somewhat rounded form. It can become more open with age if not pruned.

Size: It typically grows to 8-10 feet (240-300 cm) in height with a similar spread, making it a medium-sized shrub suitable for background planting or as a specimen.

Flowers: The flowers are pinkish-white, very fragrant, and appear in flat-topped clusters. They bloom in late autumn through early spring, adding a much-needed burst of color in the otherwise dull seasons.

Fruits: The plant produces small, red berries that eventually mature to black. While not particularly tasty for humans, they are attractive to wildlife.

Foliage:The leaves are ovate and serrated, turning from a soft green in the growing season to lovely shades of red and purple in the fall.

Hardiness: It is generally hardy and can survive in USDA zones 6-8.

Award: Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.

Uses: Often used in garden landscapes as a specimen plant or in mixed shrub borders. It can also be planted in naturalistic settings like woodland gardens.

Wildlife: The berries attract various birds and the flowers are inviting to pollinators such as butterflies.

Deer and Rabbits: The plant is not particularly attractive to deer who tend to leave it alone

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

Invasiveness: It is not considered an invasive species in most regions, but as always, check local guidelines.

Benefits: This shrub offers multi-seasonal interest, is generally easy to care for, and is beneficial to wildlife. Its fragrant flowers are a particular highlight, and it’s a great choice for adding winter interest to your garden.

How to Grow and Care for Farrer Viburnum

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

Soil: Adaptable to a wide range of soil types, but moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil is ideal. pH should be slightly acidic to neutral.

Water: Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Established plants have moderate drought tolerance but perform best with consistent moisture.

Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage vigorous growth and flowering.

Pruning: Best pruned immediately after flowering to maintain shape and control size. Remove any dead or diseased branches. However, this will eliminate the summer fruit display.

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

Pests and Diseases: Potential pest and disease issues include aphids, viburnum beetle, root rot, botrytis, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. Apply appropriate treatments as needed.