This large shrub or small tree grows 15 to 20 feet tall. It has glossy, dark green leaves with toothed edges. In May, creamy-white flowers are followed later with clusters of red berries. The shiny dark green leaves turn a burgundy in fall.
More Information
Size and Form
A large shrub or small tree that grows 15 to 20 feet high with a 15 feet spread. It has an open habit with stiff horizontal branches.
Native Geographic Location and Habitat
Siebold viburnum is native to Japan.
Bark Description
The gray bark is blocky and broken in small plates resembling alligator skin. Branches are grayish, slightly pubescent, and rigid.
Leaf Description
Opposite, elliptical leaves are 3 to 5 inches long with a toothed margins and deeply ridged veins. Leaves are dark green in summer and may pick up some red-purple color in the fall. They smell like green pepper when crushed. Some cultivars have been selected for improved fall color.
Flower Description
Small, creamy white flowers are in loose, open clusters on long stalks.
Fruit Description
The fruit is a cluster of small berry-like drupes, changing color from green to red to nearly black as it matures. Once the fruit drops, the inflorescence remains rosy-red and showy.
Care Knowledge
Plant Care
Siebold viburnum is best in full sun in moist, well-drained soil. It can tolerate some drought but would benefit from supplemental watering to maintain soil moisture during hot and dry conditions.
Prune after flowering in spring.
This plant is difficult to locate in nurseries.
Pests, Diseases, and Tolerances
No serious diseases or pests. Scorch may be a problem in sites that are too dry.
Cultivars
Ironclad™ Siebold viburnum (Viburnum sieboldii ‘KLMfour’):
A heavy flowering form with reliable burgundy fall color, this plant grows 15 feet high and 12 feet wide.
Wavecrest Siebold viburnum (Viburnum sieboldii ‘Wavecrest’):
This cultivar is 7 to 8 feet high and 4 feet wide. Thick dark green leaves turn a brick-red fall color. The fruit is orange-red with scarlet peduncles.
