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Common Viburnum

Viburnum ellipticum

shrub View on Calscape

Care

Sun

part shade

Water

low

Bloom

Mar-May

Foliage

Deciduous

Container

Friendly

Fragrant

Yes

Flowers

Prized

Edible

Berries eaten raw or cooked; used in jams and traditional foods

Native Range

Oak woodland and mixed forests of the Sierra Nevada foothills and northern California from Kern to Shasta County, 1500-4000 ft elevation

Care Guide

Planting

Plant your Common Viburnum in part shade - it thrives in dappled light or morning sun with afternoon shade, though it can handle deeper shade. Since this is a deciduous native shrub that naturally grows in California forests and mountain chaparral, plant it in fall or winter when it's dormant to help it establish before summer heat. Give it room to reach its mature size; space it accordingly if planting multiples. The data doesn't specify soil requirements, so amend with compost if your Bay Area soil is compacted, and ensure the planting hole drains well.

After Planting

Water weekly during your first summer to establish a strong root system, then transition to the low-water regimen this native prefers - it should be able to survive on rainfall once established. Expect the plant to go fully dormant and lose its leaves in winter, which is completely normal; you'll see fresh growth and delicate white flowers in spring (March through May). Prune lightly after flowering if needed to maintain shape. The biggest mistake people make is overwatering once the plant is established - resist the urge to treat it like a thirsty ornamental.

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