David Viburnum

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David Viburnum is a versatile evergreen shrub known for its attractive, leathery leaves and clusters of small, white to pale pink flowers that develop into vibrant blue berries. Its dense foliage and year-round interest make it a great choice for hedges and foundation plantings.

  • Botanical name: Viburnum davidii
  • Bloom time: Spring
  • Evergreen
  • Grown in the USA

SUNLIGHT:
Prefers partial shade to full sun

WATER:
Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. Approximately every 1-2 weeks. Watering frequency may vary based on climate and establishment phase.

IDEAL CLIMATE:
Hardy in USDA Zones 7-9; thrives in temperate to subtropical climates with well-draining soil

Note: This plant may require regular pruning to maintain its shape and encourage dense growth.

PLANT DESCRIPTION & MATURE SIZE

David Viburnum, scientifically known as Viburnum davidii, is a remarkable evergreen shrub known for its lush, leathery foliage and striking blue-black berries. This plant is renowned for its low-maintenance care requirements and its ability to thrive in various environmental conditions. With its attractive appearance and year-round interest, David Viburnum is an ideal choice for gardeners looking to add depth and texture to their landscape design.

GROWTH RATE & MATURE SIZE:

Moderate growing; reaches 2 to 3 ft tall, 3 to 4 ft wide at maturity.

WATERING & SUNLIGHT

For optimal growth, David Viburnum prefers a balance of consistent moisture and good drainage in the soil. Watering needs may fluctuate based on climate and soil type, but the aim is to keep the soil consistently moist. When it comes to sunlight, the plant is quite adaptable but does best in partial to full sun. A bit of afternoon shade is beneficial in hotter climates.

PLANT CARE & PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS

Pruning: Pruning is generally minimal for David Viburnum. However, light pruning can be performed to maintain shape and remove any dead or diseased branches, typically in late winter or early spring.

Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the early spring to encourage lush growth and berry production. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.

Winter Protection: In Zones 7-9, David Viburnum is fairly winter-hardy and generally doesn't require additional protection. However, if a particularly harsh winter is expected, consider adding a layer of mulch for extra insulation.

PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS:

Choose a planting location that offers well-drained soil and partial to full sunlight. Dig a hole that is about twice the width of the root ball and just as deep. Loosen the soil around the planting hole and mix in some organic compost for added nutrients. Place the David Viburnum in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole, lightly compressing the soil as you go to eliminate air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting and apply a layer of mulch around the base to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Follow up with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to encourage strong growth and berry production.

USDA GROW ZONE:

Zones 7-9

David Viburnum is well-suited for USDA Hardiness Zones 7-9, which means it can tolerate a range of mild to moderate climates. In these zones, the plant benefits from consistent moisture levels and well-drained soil. Although adaptable to various environmental conditions, it performs exceptionally well in regions with moderate winters and temperate summers.

Frequently Asked Questions

David Viburnum typically grows to a compact size, making it suitable for various landscaping applications. Here are some general guidelines for the size of David Viburnum:

Height: David Viburnum typically reaches a height of 2 to 4 feet at maturity. However, in optimal growing conditions, it may occasionally grow slightly taller, reaching up to 5 feet in height.

Spread: The spread of David Viburnum is similar to its height, typically ranging from 2 to 4 feet at maturity. The plant tends to form a dense, rounded mound or clump, with branches spreading outward from the center.

Habit: David Viburnum has a compact, mounded habit with dense foliage. The plant may develop a slightly broader spread than height, especially as it matures and forms new growth.

Growth Rate: David Viburnum has a moderate growth rate, adding about 6 to 12 inches of new growth per year under optimal conditions. This gradual growth rate helps the plant maintain its compact size and shape over time.

When planting David Viburnum, be sure to space individual specimens appropriately to allow for their mature size and spread. Additionally, regular pruning and maintenance can help control the size and shape of the plant and promote healthy growth. Overall, David Viburnum's compact size makes it a versatile and attractive addition to garden landscapes, providing year-round interest with its glossy foliage, fragrant flowers, and occasional berry production.

David Viburnum is known for its moderate growth rate. Under optimal growing conditions, it typically grows at a moderate pace, adding about 6 to 12 inches of new growth per year. However, growth rates can vary depending on factors such as climate, soil fertility, sunlight exposure, and moisture levels.

In general, David Viburnum is not considered a fast-growing shrub like some other species of viburnum. Instead, it tends to establish a dense, compact habit over time, making it well-suited for use as a hedge, border, or specimen plant in the landscape.

While David Viburnum may not grow as rapidly as some other plants, its moderate growth rate allows for steady development and ensures that it remains manageable with regular pruning and maintenance. With proper care and attention, David Viburnum can reach its mature size within a few years, providing attractive foliage, fragrant flowers, and occasional berry production in the garden landscape.

Caring for David Viburnum involves providing the right growing conditions, regular watering, occasional fertilizing, and pruning as needed. Here are some care tips:

Sunlight: Plant David Viburnum in an area with partial to full shade. While it can tolerate some morning sun, avoid prolonged exposure to intense afternoon sunlight, especially in hot climates.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during hot, dry periods. Water deeply and thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Mulching around the base of the plant helps retain moisture and suppresses weeds.

Soil: Plant David Viburnum in well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Amend heavy clay soils with compost or organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.

Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and flowering. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for application rates based on the size and age of the plant.

Pruning: Prune David Viburnum after flowering to maintain its shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and improve airflow within the plant. Avoid heavy pruning, as it can reduce flowering. Rejuvenation pruning, which involves cutting back one-third of the oldest stems to the ground, can be done every few years to stimulate new growth.

Pest and Disease Control: Monitor the plant for signs of pests such as aphids, scale insects, or spider mites, and treat them promptly with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil if necessary. Watch for symptoms of common diseases like powdery mildew or leaf spot, and ensure good air circulation to reduce the risk of fungal infections.

Winter Protection: In colder climates, provide winter protection by mulching around the base of the plant and covering it with burlap or other protective material to shield it from freezing temperatures and harsh winds.

Regular Maintenance: Remove spent flowers and prune out any dead or damaged branches throughout the growing season to keep the plant looking tidy and healthy.

By following these care tips, you can help ensure that your David Viburnum remains healthy, vigorous, and attractive in your garden landscape.

The best place to plant David Viburnum depends on various factors, including sunlight, soil conditions, and available space. Here are some general guidelines for selecting an ideal planting location:

Sunlight: David Viburnum typically thrives in partial shade to full shade, although it can tolerate some morning sun or dappled sunlight. Choose a planting location that receives filtered sunlight or shade for most of the day, especially during the hot afternoon hours.

Soil Conditions: David Viburnum prefers well-draining, moist, and fertile soil. However, it can tolerate a range of soil types, including loamy, sandy, or clay soils, as long as they are well-draining. Avoid planting in waterlogged or poorly drained soil to prevent root rot and other moisture-related issues.

Spacing: Ensure adequate spacing between David Viburnum plants to allow for proper air circulation and room for growth. Follow spacing recommendations based on the intended use of the plants, whether for hedging, mass planting, or individual specimens.

Climate: Consider your local climate and growing zone when selecting a planting location for David Viburnum. While it is generally adaptable to a wide range of climates, it may perform best in regions with mild to moderate temperatures and relatively consistent moisture levels.

Protection from Harsh Conditions: If possible, choose a planting location that offers protection from strong winds, particularly cold winter winds. Windy conditions can damage the foliage and reduce overall plant health.

Landscaping Use: David Viburnum is versatile and can be used in various landscaping applications, including hedges, borders, woodland gardens, or as a specimen plant. Select a location that complements your overall landscape design and provides visual interest throughout the year.

By considering these factors and choosing a suitable planting location, you can help ensure the success and long-term health of your David Viburnum plants in your garden landscape.

David Viburnum generally benefits from occasional pruning to maintain its shape, promote healthy growth, and rejuvenate the plant. Here are some guidelines for pruning David Viburnum:

Remove Dead or Damaged Branches: Regularly inspect your David Viburnum for any dead, diseased, or damaged branches and promptly prune them back to healthy tissue. This helps maintain the plant's overall health and appearance.

Thin Out Overcrowded Growth: If your David Viburnum becomes overly dense or crowded, selectively prune out some of the interior branches to improve airflow and light penetration. This can help reduce the risk of disease and promote vigorous growth.

Rejuvenation Pruning: Every few years, consider performing rejuvenation pruning on older or overgrown David Viburnum specimens. This involves selectively removing up to one-third of the oldest, tallest stems at ground level to encourage new growth from the base of the plant.

Prune After Flowering: To avoid removing flower buds, prune your David Viburnum immediately after it finishes flowering in late spring or early summer. This timing allows the plant to set new flower buds for the following year's bloom while still giving it time to produce new growth before winter.

Shape and Size Control: Use pruning to maintain the desired shape and size of your David Viburnum. This may involve lightly trimming the outermost branches to encourage a compact, tidy appearance.

When pruning David Viburnum, always use clean, sharp tools to make smooth cuts and minimize damage to the plant. Additionally, avoid excessive pruning, as this can stress the plant and reduce flowering. With proper pruning practices, you can help keep your David Viburnum healthy, attractive, and flourishing in your garden landscape.

David Viburnum is typically considered a semi-evergreen shrub, meaning it retains its foliage throughout most of the year, but it may lose some leaves in colder climates or during periods of extreme weather.

The glossy, dark green leaves of David Viburnum often persist through mild winters and into the early part of the following growing season. In regions with milder climates, the foliage may remain evergreen year-round. However, in colder climates or during harsh winters, the plant may experience some leaf drop, particularly from older growth.

Despite the potential for partial leaf drop in colder climates, David Viburnum still provides valuable year-round interest in the garden with its attractive foliage, fragrant flowers, and occasional berry production. Additionally, any leaf loss is typically temporary, and the plant will regrow new foliage in the spring as temperatures warm.

No, you do not necessarily need two David Viburnum plants for successful growth and flowering. While some species of Viburnum may require cross-pollination between different plants to set fruit, David Viburnum is typically self-fertile, meaning a single plant can produce viable seeds without the need for another plant nearby.

However, having multiple David Viburnum plants in close proximity can enhance pollination and fruit set, potentially resulting in a more abundant berry crop. Additionally, planting multiple specimens can create a more visually appealing landscape and provide greater genetic diversity in your garden.

Ultimately, whether you choose to plant one or more David Viburnum plants depends on your preferences, available space, and desired landscape design. If you opt to plant only one, you can still enjoy the plant's attractive foliage, fragrant flowers, and occasional berry production.

When planting David Viburnum, spacing depends on the intended purpose, desired density, and the specific cultivar's mature size. Here are some general guidelines:

For Hedging or Mass Planting: If you're planting David Viburnum as a hedge or in a mass planting for a dense effect, space the plants 2 to 3 feet apart. This spacing allows the plants to grow together and form a cohesive hedge or mass planting over time.

For Individual Specimens: If you're planting David Viburnum as individual specimens or focal points in the landscape, space them 3 to 5 feet apart. This spacing provides each plant with enough room to grow and develop a full, rounded shape without overcrowding neighboring plants.

Consider Mature Size: Keep in mind the cultivar's mature size when determining spacing. Some varieties of David Viburnum may have a more compact growth habit, while others can grow larger. Be sure to research the specific cultivar you're planting and adjust spacing accordingly to accommodate its mature size.

Account for Future Growth: Although David Viburnum grows relatively slowly, it's essential to consider its eventual size when spacing plants. Providing adequate room for each plant to reach its mature size ensures proper air circulation, reduces competition for nutrients and sunlight, and minimizes the need for frequent pruning.

By following these spacing guidelines and considering the intended use and mature size of David Viburnum, you can create a visually appealing and well-balanced landscape design.

David Viburnum typically blooms once a year in late spring to early summer, usually from late May to early June, depending on the specific climate and growing conditions. The flowering period may vary slightly based on factors such as local climate, temperature, and the plant's maturity.

During the blooming period, David Viburnum produces clusters of small white flowers that are often followed by blue-black berries in the fall if pollination occurs successfully. The flowers are fragrant and attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making them a valuable addition to garden landscapes.

While David Viburnum blooms once a year, its dense evergreen foliage provides year-round interest in the garden, making it a versatile and attractive ornamental shrub. With proper care and maintenance, including adequate sunlight, water, and occasional pruning, you can ensure your David Viburnum produces beautiful blooms year after year.

Several factors could contribute to David Viburnum failing to bloom. Here are some possible reasons and solutions:

Immaturity: Viburnum davidii may take a few years to mature before it begins blooming. If your plant is relatively young, it might simply need more time to establish itself before it produces flowers. Be patient and continue providing proper care.

Pruning: Pruning at the wrong time or too heavily can remove flower buds and hinder blooming. If you've been pruning your David Viburnum, ensure you're doing so at the appropriate time, typically after flowering has finished for the season.

Improper Pruning: While David Viburnum generally benefits from light pruning to maintain its shape, excessive or improper pruning can remove flower buds. If you suspect this is the issue, adjust your pruning practices accordingly.

Environmental Stress: Environmental factors such as extreme temperatures, drought, or waterlogging can stress the plant and affect its ability to bloom. Ensure your Viburnum is planted in well-draining soil and receives adequate water without being waterlogged. Additionally, protect the plant from extreme heat or cold, as these conditions can impact blooming.

Nutrient Deficiency: A lack of essential nutrients, particularly phosphorus, can inhibit blooming. Consider conducting a soil test to determine if your soil lacks any vital nutrients. If necessary, amend the soil with a balanced fertilizer, paying attention to phosphorus levels, to encourage flowering.

Incorrect Light: Viburnum davidii prefers partial to full shade but can tolerate some sunlight. If your plant is not receiving adequate light or is exposed to excessive shade, it may not bloom as abundantly. Ensure your plant is situated in an appropriate location with the right amount of light for optimal flowering.

By addressing these potential issues and providing proper care, you can encourage your Viburnum davidii to bloom and enjoy its beautiful flowers.

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