Viburnum tinus ‘Spring Bouquet’ (Laurustinus)

Viburnum tinus ‘Spring Bouquet’ (Laurustinus) is a compact variety of the ever-popular Viburnum tinus, offering an abundance of bloom in a smaller frame. It is prized for its vibrant dark green foliage and pinkish-white flowers that create a captivating contrast.

Viburnum tinus ‘Spring Bouquet’: An In-depth Look

Native: This cultivar is a variant of Viburnum tinus, which is indigenous to the Mediterranean region, North Africa, and the Canary Islands.

Plant Type and Habit: ‘Spring Bouquet’ is an evergreen shrub with a dense, rounded habit, making it an ideal choice for smaller gardens and spaces.

Size: This particular cultivar typically grows to a height and spread of 4-6 feet (120-180 cm), a compact size compared to other Viburnum tinus varieties.

Flowers: The ‘Spring Bouquet’ is notable for its clusters of small, star-shaped, pinkish-white flowers that appear in tight cymes, lending a classic and timeless beauty to gardens. This shrub typically blooms from late winter through early spring, offering floral splendor during a season when many other plants are dormant.

Fruits: After the flowering period, this shrub produces tiny red berries that eventually turn into a dark blue-black color, adding another layer of visual interest.

Foliage: The dense, leathery leaves are dark green and glossy, providing an excellent backdrop for the delicate blooms.

Hardiness: ‘Spring Bouquet’ is hardy in USDA zones 7-9, making it adaptable to a variety of climates.

Uses: Its compact size makes it suitable for urban gardens and smaller landscapes. It can be used for hedges, shrub borders and as a foundation plant.

Wildlife: The flowers attract a range of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, while the berries are a food source for birds.

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 compact size of ‘Spring Bouquet’ allows for greater landscaping flexibility, especially in smaller spaces. Its dual function as both a beautiful ornamental and a wildlife attractor enhances its value.
Key Facts: What sets ‘Spring Bouquet’ apart is its compact size coupled with the traditional characteristics of Viburnum tinus—evergreen foliage, long flowering period, and high adaptability. It offers a long period of interest, from its late winter blooms through its fall berries, making it a garden treasure in smaller landscapes or as part of a mixed planting in larger gardens.

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.