Viburnum rhytidophyllum (Leatherleaf Viburnum): Evergreen with Deeply Veined Foliage

Overview

Leatherleaf viburnum (Viburnum rhytidophyllum) is a vigorous evergreen shrub 10-15 feet tall and wide with an upright habit. Its 8-inch lustrous, deeply veined oval leaves are dark blue-green above, pale green below, with fuzzy brown petioles. Fragrant creamy-white spring flowers, blue berries maturing to glossy black. Foliage may droop in extended freezes.

Growing Conditions

Full sun to part shade in rich, moist, very acidic soil. Tolerates wet soils. Shelter from cold, drying winds. Blooms best in near-full sun. Medium moisture.

Care and Maintenance

Take greenwood cuttings in summer. Prune after flowering if needed. Protect from harsh winter winds.

Common Problems

Gray mold, rust, mildews, wood rot, verticillium wilt, leaf spots, dieback. Aphids, viburnum beetles, scale, weevils, Japanese beetles, mealybugs, tree hoppers.

Landscape Uses

• Hedges and screening
• Woodland gardens
• Specimen evergreen
• Bird gardens (fruit)
• Shade gardens

Key Features

• Evergreen, deeply veined 8-inch leaves
• Fragrant creamy-white spring flowers
• Blue-to-glossy-black fruit
• 10-15 feet tall and wide
• Attracts songbirds
• Tolerates wet, acidic soils