Viburnum rhytidophyllum (Leatherleaf Viburnum)

Viburnum rhytidophyllum (Leatherleaf Viburnum) is a large evergreen shrub of upright habit with very long, glossy, heavily veined, dark green leaves adorned with gray undersides. In late spring, showy domed clusters, 4-8 in. across (10-20 cm), packed with small creamy-white flowers are abundantly produced. They give way to pendulous clusters of bright red berries in early fall, which ripen to glossy black and often persist until early winter. Perfect for the shrub border, effective in massing or as a background plant.

• Grows up to 6-10 ft. tall and wide (180-300 cm). Another seedling or cultivar is required for pollination.
• A full sun or part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in average, moderately fertile, humus-rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Some drought tolerance once established. Protect from strong winds.
• Perfect as a specimen plant or in shrub borders, hedges and screens and foundation plantings.
• Attractive to butterflies and birds.
• Low maintenance, this plant has no serious insect or disease problems but watch for leaf spot.
• Prune as required immediately after flowering.
• Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer.
• Fruit if eaten can cause a mild stomach upset.
• Native to China