Viburnum tinus (Laurustinus)

Very ornamental, Viburnum tinus (Laurustinus) is a vigorous, bushy, evergreen shrub noted for its eye-catching flower clusters, colorful berries, and leathery foliage.  Easy to grow and reliable, this lovely, long-flowering shrub is an excellent asset in the winter garden, blooming its heart out when little else is in bloom.

Viburnum tinus: An In-depth Look

Native: Native to the Mediterranean region as well as parts of North Africa and the Canary Islands, Viburnum tinus has been a garden favorite for centuries.

Plant Type and Habit: This is an evergreen shrub that generally maintains a rounded, upright habit. It can be grown as a single specimen or utilized for hedging and screening purposes.

Size: Mature plants typically reach heights of 6-12 feet (1.8 to 3.6 meters) with a spread of 6-10 feet (1.8 to 3 meters), depending on growing conditions and pruning regimen.

Flowers: Opening from pale pink buds from winter to mid-spring, masses of tiny, fragrant, white flower clusters, 2-4 inches (5-10 cm), are elegantly held above the foliage.

Fruits: After flowering, the plant produces showy, bright, metallic blue berries.

Foliage: The leaves are opposite, ovate to oblong, and remain a glossy, dark green throughout the year.

Hardiness: Viburnum tinus is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.

Uses: Because of its aesthetic appeal and hardy nature, Viburnum tinus is commonly used for hedges, screens, foundation plantings, or as a stand-alone ornamental shrub.

Wildlife: The flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, while the berries provide food for birds during the leaner winter months.

Deer and Rabbits: Viburnum tinus is generally considered to be deer-resistant, although young plants may be vulnerable to grazing. Rabbits typically don’t prefer the thick, leathery leaves.

Toxicity: While not highly toxic, ingestion of large quantities of berries could cause mild symptoms of poisoning in humans and pets.

Drought: Once established, Viburnum tinus exhibits a moderate degree of drought tolerance. However, it prefers consistent moisture for optimal growth.

Invasiveness: Find where this species is invasive in the U.S.

Benefits: The shrub’s evergreen nature provides year-round interest, while its prolonged bloom time brings beauty during months when other plants are dormant. It also offers valuable habitat and food sources for wildlife, enhancing your garden’s ecosystem.

How to Grow and Care for Laurustinus

Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade. More sunlight results in better flowering.

Soil: Adaptable to various soil types but thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile, humus-rich soil. Slightly acidic to neutral pH is optimal. Adaptable to sandy or clay soils if there is excellent drainage. 

Water: Water regularly to establish the root system. Once established, moderate water is adequate. For best flower and fruit production, provide occasional water during dry weather. Overwatering can lead to root rot. 

Fertilizer: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring. No heavy feeding is required.

Pruning: Best pruned immediately after flowering to maintain shape. Avoid heavy pruning as this may reduce flowering for the next season.

Propagation: Can be propagated via semi-hardwood cuttings taken in 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, root rot, and botrytis. Apply appropriate treatments as needed.