Description: Viburnum odoratissimum, commonly known as Sweet Viburnum, is an evergreen shrub or small tree known for its glossy green foliage and fragrant white flowers. This plant is particularly valued for its fast growth, dense habit, and versatility in various landscape settings, making it an excellent choice for hedges, screens, and specimen plantings.

Flowers:

• Blooms: The plant produces clusters of small, white flowers in late spring to early summer. The blooms are showy and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
• Fragrance: The flowers have a strong, sweet fragrance, adding sensory appeal to the garden.

Foliage:

• Leaves: The leaves are large, glossy, and dark green, providing a lush and vibrant appearance year-round. The foliage is dense and leathery, making it an effective privacy screen.
• Seasonal Color: The foliage remains green throughout the year, with new growth emerging with a reddish tint.

Fruit:

• Fruit: The plant produces small, red berries that mature to black. These berries are attractive to birds but are not typically significant for ornamental value.

Form and Size:

• Size: Typically grows 3-6 meters tall and 2-3 meters wide, forming a dense, rounded shape.
• Habit: Upright and bushy with a well-branched structure, making it suitable for various landscape uses.

Growing Conditions:

• Climate: Thrives in temperate to subtropical climates and is suitable for various regions in Australia. It can tolerate light frosts and coastal conditions.
• Soil: Prefers well-draining, fertile soils but can adapt to a variety of soil types, including clay, sandy, and loamy soils. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
• Sunlight: Best grown in full sun to partial shade. Full sun promotes the best growth and flowering, while partial shade is tolerated.
• Watering: Regular watering during the establishment phase is crucial. Once established, it benefits from consistent moisture but can tolerate short periods of drought.

Uses:

• Ornamental Shrub: Highly valued as an ornamental shrub for its attractive foliage and fragrant flowers.
• Hedges and Screening: Ideal for creating tall hedges, screens, and windbreaks due to its dense growth habit.
• Specimen Plant: Suitable as a focal point in gardens and landscapes.
• Containers: Can be grown in large containers, making it versatile for patios and small gardens.

Maintenance:

• Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage bushier growth. Regular pruning helps keep the plant tidy and promotes healthy new growth.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and prolific flowering.
• Pests and Diseases: Generally resistant to many pests and diseases. Monitor for common pests such as aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. Good air circulation and proper watering practices help prevent fungal diseases.

Notes:

• Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 8-10. In cooler regions of Australia, provide protection from severe frost to prevent damage to new growth.

Companion Plants: Pair with other evergreen shrubs and perennials, such as camellias, gardenias, and hydrangeas, to create a harmonious and visually appealing garden display

Viburnum odoratissimum

Common Name: Sweet Viburnum

Botanical Name: Viburnum odoratissimum

Family: Adoxaceae

Origin: Native to Asia, particularly the Himalayas, China, and Japan

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