Wild Raisin, Smooth Withe-rod
viburnum nudum
Also known as: ["Withe-rod","White Rod"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to eastern North America, known for its clusters of white flowers and edible blue-black fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Adoxaceae |
| Genus: | Viburnum |
| Botanical Name: | Viburnum nudum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: garden bed or border in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–28–43°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- 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 after flowering; remove dead or damaged wood as needed throughout the year.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
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 avoid leaf scorch. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade. Indoors, place near a south or west-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days, or when top inch of soil is dry
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
moist, well-drained, slightly acidic loam
pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure soil is not waterlogged; amend with organic matter for fertility; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–9. Prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates winter lows to -20°F (-29°C) and summer highs to 90°F (32°C).
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; adjust watering in extreme temperatures; monitor for stress signs.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; water thoroughly before and after applying fertilizer; avoid contact with plant stems.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Keep warm and bright.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but still flexible.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Peat and perlite mix or a well-draining potting mix with added sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; plants may take a full growing season to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagation dome, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a bud or lateral branch; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage flowering. Light pruning after flowering is ideal.
Tools
Hand pruners, loppers, pruning saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/diseased wood; shape lightly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container. Generally, every 2–3 years is sufficient.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water well after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone. Apply water slowly and deeply to allow it to penetrate the soil, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
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 or wilting in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause leaf drop, slowed growth, or dieback of new shoots. Frost can damage tender tissues.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base to insulate roots; protect from harsh winds; cover with frost cloth during extreme cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering. Plants may become stressed and vulnerable to pests.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilization; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth emerges. Apply a light application again in midsummer if needed. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicViburnum nudum berries are slightly toxic to cats and may cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms if consumed. The effects are typically not severe but warrant monitoring.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Viburnum nudum can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested in significant quantities. The toxicity is generally low, but caution is advised.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicViburnum nudum berries are generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to their astringent properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Viburnum nudum toxic to pets?
A: No, Viburnum nudum is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Viburnum nudum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and fruits.
Q: What are the common problems with Viburnum nudum?
A: Common issues include leaf spots, wilting, and fungal growth.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Adoxaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, or when top |
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