Viburnum x burkwoodii

Burkwood viburnum is a garden hybrid between v.carlesii and v.utile made in England in 1924. It belongs to the most fragrant viburnums whose flowers people can smell from a distance of 7 or even 8 meters. Small, intensely sweetly scented, tubular flowers are composed in spherical clusters about 10 cm across, and are produced in early spring. Sometimes a few flowers are produced in late autumn if the weather is sunny and warm. They are followed by small, red, inedible fruit turning black later.

Leaves are dark green, ovate, 6-10 cm long, and glossy. They are evergreen from zone 8 up and deciduous or semi-evergreen in colder regions, making a handsome show of pastel shades of scarlet red and golden yellow in autumn. The plant grows fast forming bushy, rounded shrubs with flat tops. Pruning is not needed to improve branching, but can be done to make a prettier shape or to keep it smaller. Prune it just after the blooming has finished before the leaves unfold completely.

Viburnums are not specific about soil needs. This one can even tolerate compacted ground and city pollution. The soil should be reasonably fertile and kept evenly moist for a few months after planting, though it can take long periods of drought once established. Grow it in full sun or partial shade. Hardy to about -40°C (USDA zone 3).

Last update 09-03-2018