The ‘Molly Schroeder’ Viburnum (Viburnum plicatum f. tomentosum ‘Molly Schroeder’) is a deciduous shrub prized for its ornamental qualities. This cultivar stands out for its beauty and adaptability, making it a desirable choice for landscapes. Its multi-season interest and straightforward care contribute to its popularity.
Distinctive Features of ‘Molly Schroeder’ Viburnum
‘Molly Schroeder’ Viburnum features unique lavender-pink lacecap flowers. Blooms appear from mid to late spring, often reblooming in fall, providing extended color. The delicate pink petals are sometimes accented with creamy white veining, creating a two-tone effect.
It grows 5 to 8 feet tall with a comparable spread, forming a rounded profile. Its distinctly horizontal, “double-file” branching provides an architectural element. Dark green leaves have serrated edges and display red and purple shades in autumn, adding seasonal interest. After flowering, red berries develop, maturing to deep black, extending its visual appeal.
Planting and Site Selection
For optimal growth, ‘Molly Schroeder’ Viburnum thrives in full sun to partial shade, ideally with at least six hours of daily sunlight for abundant flowering and vibrant foliage. It adapts to various soil types but prefers fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
Prepare the planting site by incorporating well-rotted manure or garden compost to enhance soil fertility and drainage. Plant the viburnum at the same depth it was in its container, backfilling the hole and watering thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. It is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 8. Consistent moisture is important during the first growing season to help the root system establish.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Once established, ‘Molly Schroeder’ Viburnum requires moderate water, benefiting from weekly deep watering during dry periods. Avoiding overwatering and ensuring good drainage helps prevent root rot. Applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring supports healthy growth and flowering, but excessive fertilization can reduce bloom production.
Prune immediately after the main flowering period to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged branches. Avoid heavy pruning, as it can reduce the following year’s blooms. Periodically removing the oldest stems can encourage new, vigorous growth. Monitor for common viburnum pests like aphids, scale insects, thrips, or the viburnum beetle, and diseases such as leaf spot, root rot, or botrytis.
Integrating ‘Molly Schroeder’ into Your Landscape
Its architectural form and unique coloration allow for versatile use in garden design. Its tiered, horizontal branching makes it an excellent specimen or focal point in a garden bed. It also performs well in mixed borders, contributing structure and seasonal interest alongside other plants.
Its size and growth habit make it suitable for informal hedges or foundation plantings. For companion planting, its features can be complemented by plants such as:
Hostas, which offer contrasting leaf textures in shaded areas.
Daylilies, which provide bursts of color.
Hydrangeas, which can create a cohesive floral display.
Ferns, which add a delicate, natural feel.