Farrer's Viburnum
viburnum farreri
Also known as: ["Winter Viburnum","Farrer's Wayfaring Tree"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub known for its fragrant, pinkish-white flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring, followed by red berries that turn black when ripe.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Adoxaceae |
| Genus: | Viburnum |
| Botanical Name: | Viburnum farreri |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: garden border or as a specimen plant in a mixed shrubbery
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid heavy clay soils unless amended.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates slightly alkaline to acidic conditions.
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; 6–8 hours of direct or bright indirect sunlight daily; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
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 during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline).
Test soil pH annually; amend as needed; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–7; tolerates cold winters; prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F); protect from extreme heat.
Monitor microclimates; protect from frost; avoid placing near heat sources in winter.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly after pruning; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; water before and after feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer; layering is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F.
Medium
Peat and perlite mix or coarse sand; maintain consistent moisture.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot or ground within 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags for humidity.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant to encourage bushy growth; remove dead or diseased wood; promote air circulation.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, loppers for larger branches, pruning saw for thick stems.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune at the right time; make clean cuts; remove debris after pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; use fresh potting mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; water plant before repotting; position plant at correct depth.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
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
Chlorosis or leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold; stunted growth in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt or discolor; growth slows; severe cold can cause dieback or death of tender parts.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with burlap in extreme cold; avoid planting in exposed, windy sites.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature leaf drop; reduced flowering; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose appropriate fertilizer; apply at recommended rates; water thoroughly after application; avoid fertilizing dormant plants.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, especially in late summer; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume Viburnum farreri berries. The toxic compounds are not highly potent, but ingestion can still cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Viburnum farreri can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. While not typically life-threatening, ingestion may lead to discomfort and digestive issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicViburnum farreri berries contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to temporary discomfort without severe systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does Viburnum farreri bloom?
A: It blooms in late winter to early spring, typically January to March.
Q: Is Viburnum farreri toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How much sunlight does Viburnum farreri need?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Adoxaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
