Wayfaring-tree
viburnum lantana
Also known as: ["Wayfaring tree","Common wayfaring-tree"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to Europe and parts of Asia, known for its dense foliage and clusters of white flowers followed by red berries that turn black when ripe.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Adoxaceae |
| Genus: | Viburnum |
| Botanical Name: | Viburnum lantana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: mixed shrub border or woodland edge
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Moderate to well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates clay but prefers improved drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done in late winter if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if rejuvenation is needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to sunlight gradually; protect from intense midday sun in summer; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide afternoon shade in hot regions; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure good drainage, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Mulch to retain moisture; avoid compacting soil; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; tolerates temperatures from -20°F to 90°F; prefers cool winters and moderate summers.
Protect from frost; water deeply before cold snaps; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize once a year in spring; water before and after applying; use a balanced 10-10-10 formula.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings in summer; layering can also be successful.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer for cuttings; late winter for layering.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat and perlite mix or cactus mix with added sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the plant; heading back to control size; selective removal of crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage bushier growth; prune after flowering to avoid cutting off next year’s buds.
Tools
Hand pruners, loppers, pruning saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts just above buds or branches; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or dormancy.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water well after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone, ensuring water penetrates deeply but does not pool. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer; reduce frequency in fall and winter to once every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry partially between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn brown or drop; buds may fail to open; growth slows or halts in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with burlap in harsh winters; avoid planting in exposed, windy sites.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature leaf drop; reduced flowering in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose appropriate fertilizer; apply at recommended rate; water thoroughly after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, especially in late summer or fall.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Viburnum lantana may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation in cats due to cyanogenic glycosides. Symptoms are typically mild but should be monitored.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Viburnum lantana can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides. While generally not life-threatening, ingestion may lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Viburnum lantana contain small amounts of cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide upon digestion. Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal distress and discomfort, but severe poisoning is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Viburnum lantana toxic to pets?
A: No, Viburnum lantana is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Viburnum lantana attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers and berries.
Q: How much maintenance does Viburnum lantana require?
A: It requires moderate maintenance, including occasional pruning and watering during dry periods.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Adoxaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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