Hobblebush
viburnum lantanoides
Also known as: ["Wayfaringtree","Large-leaved viburnum"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub with large, heart-shaped leaves and showy, flat-topped 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 lantanoides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: woodland garden or shaded border
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if indoor air is very dry
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates more shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching. For indoor placement, use a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing in hot, reflective surfaces.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; prioritize deep watering over frequent shallow applications.
Soil
well-drained, slightly acidic loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds; avoid compacted soil; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–7. Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C).
Protect from late spring frosts; avoid placing near heat sources; monitor microclimates in the garden.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid nitrogen-heavy formulas; discontinue in late summer to prevent tender growth.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings taken in early summer or layering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early summer for cuttings; late spring for layering.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment in new pot or ground may take an additional 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to promote bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts just above buds or branches; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; replace with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose new pot with drainage holes; prepare fresh soil mix; water plant before repotting; place in shade for a few days post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water begins to drain from the bottom, avoiding wetting foliage. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
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 curl or turn brown; buds may fail to open; overall growth may slow or stop.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting despite moist soil; leaf edges may brown; reduced flowering or fruiting.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water before and after fertilizing; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply according to package directions, avoiding over-fertilization.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume the berries of Viburnum lantanoides. The toxicity is generally low, but ingestion should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Viburnum lantanoides can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. While not highly toxic, ingestion may lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicViburnum lantanoides, commonly known as hobblebush, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The berries are the primary toxic parts, though they are not highly poisonous.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How fast does Hobblebush grow?
A: Hobblebush is a moderately fast-growing shrub, typically reaching its mature size within 5-10 years.
Q: Does Viburnum lantanoides attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and berries.
Q: Is Hobblebush suitable for shade?
A: Yes, it thrives in partial shade and can tolerate full shade, though flowering may be reduced.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Adoxaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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