Mapleleaf Viburnum
viburnum acerifolium
Also known as: ["Dwarf Maple","Girald Viburnum"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to eastern North America, known for its maple-like leaves and clusters of white flowers followed by berries that change color from green to red to black.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Adoxaceae |
| Genus: | Viburnum |
| Botanical Name: | Viburnum acerifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: mixed shrub border or woodland garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–25–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Moderate to well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loam with organic matter; tolerates clay but prefers improved drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning after flowering if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if rejuvenation is required.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun, filtered afternoon light preferred); tolerates dappled light in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to full sun if moving from shade; protect from intense midday sun to avoid leaf scorch; ideal for understory or partially shaded garden beds.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is best; avoid harsh afternoon rays; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; prioritize deep watering over frequent shallow applications.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0); adaptable to slight variations.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend heavy clay soils; maintain consistent moisture levels.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; tolerates temperatures from -30°F to 90°F; prefers cool summers and cold winters for optimal growth.
Protect from frost in early spring; shield from intense summer heat; ensure good air circulation in humid conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only if growth is poor; avoid over-fertilization which can harm roots; water thoroughly after fertilizing to distribute nutrients.
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 with a plastic cover.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer for cuttings; late winter for layering.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat and perlite mix or coarse sand; maintain consistent moisture.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pots or ground within 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, plastic bags or propagation dome, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to encourage branching; selective removal of crossing or weak stems.
Pruning Plan
Shape and maintain size; encourage bushier growth; remove dead or diseased wood; enhance flowering and fruiting.
Tools
Hand pruners, loppers, pruning saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts just above buds or branches; remove dead/diseased wood first.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or fruiting periods.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot only if the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container; generally not required for outdoor shrubs unless grown in pots.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water well after repotting; place in shade for a few days to recover.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; apply until water begins to drain from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; water early morning or late evening for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, adjusting based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or wilting in excessive heat; leaf drop or delayed bud break in prolonged cold; stunted growth in unsuitable temperatures.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or drop; buds may fail to open; root growth slows or halts; increased susceptibility to winter damage in extreme cold.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with burlap in harsh winters; avoid planting in exposed, windy sites; ensure proper winter hydration.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature leaf drop; reduced flowering; increased pest susceptibility due to stress.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; avoid fertilizing during heat waves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid late-season feeding; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply lightly around the root zone; avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall to prevent new growth vulnerable to winter damage.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Viburnum acerifolium can be slightly toxic to cats if ingested in significant amounts. The toxicity is generally mild and may lead to gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Viburnum acerifolium can be slightly toxic to dogs if ingested in significant amounts. The toxicity is generally mild and may lead to gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicViburnum acerifolium, commonly known as mapleleaf viburnum, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The berries, while not highly toxic, may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Viburnum acerifolium attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers and berries.
Q: Is Viburnum acerifolium toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How much sunlight does Viburnum acerifolium need?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full shade, making it suitable for woodland gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Adoxaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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