Viburnum Redwing is a popular choice for many gardens, offering multi-season appeal. This ornamental shrub is recognized for its dynamic foliage and vibrant berry display, making it an attractive addition to various landscape designs. Its adaptability contributes to its widespread appeal.
Viburnum Redwing Characteristics
Viburnum Redwing (Viburnum trilobum ‘J. N. Select’) grows with an upright, rounded, and spreading habit, reaching a mature height of 8 to 10 feet and a width of 6 to 8 feet. The foliage begins with a distinctive reddish tint in spring, gradually transitioning to a dark green during summer. In autumn, these three-lobed, maple-like leaves transform into a brilliant crimson, providing seasonal color.
In late spring, the shrub produces showy, lacecap-style white flowers, about 3 inches wide, which are rich in nectar and attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees. Following these blooms, from late summer into early winter, clusters of bright red, glossy berries emerge. These berries are ornamental and edible, with a sweet-tart flavor, and they persist on the shrub, providing a food source for birds and adding winter interest. For optimal fruit production, planting another `Viburnum trilobum` variety nearby for cross-pollination is beneficial for heavier fruit production.
Planting Viburnum Redwing
This shrub thrives in full sun to partial shade, with full sun encouraging the most abundant flowers and fruit. It adapts well to a variety of soil types, including clay and loam, provided they are moist and well-drained. While it tolerates a range of soil pH, consistently moist conditions are preferred, and the plant should not be allowed to dry out.
The ideal time for planting Viburnum Redwing is in the spring or early fall, which allows the plant to establish its root system before extreme temperatures. When planting, dig a hole that is as deep as the root ball and at least two to three times as wide. Mixing some compost or peat moss with the excavated soil can enrich it and improve drainage, aiding root spread. After placing the plant, ensure the soil line is even with the base of the plant where the roots flare out, then water thoroughly and apply a 2-inch layer of mulch to help retain soil moisture.
Caring for Your Viburnum Redwing
Consistent moisture is important for newly planted Viburnum Redwing shrubs. During the first growing season, provide regular watering to ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Established plants show good drought tolerance but may require supplemental watering during extended dry periods to maintain vigor.
Fertilization can support healthy growth, though Viburnum Redwing is adaptable. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied once a year in spring can provide necessary nutrients. However, avoid over-fertilizing, which can promote excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering and fruiting.
Pruning should be done immediately after the shrub finishes flowering in late spring to avoid removing next year’s flower buds, as it blooms on old wood. Pruning can be done to shape the plant, control its size, or remove any dead or damaged branches. For rejuvenation, older, less vigorous stems can be removed at ground level during the dormant season, which encourages new growth and maintains plant health. Viburnum Redwing is low maintenance and exhibits good resistance to common pests and diseases, though occasional issues such as aphids or powdery mildew may arise.
Landscape Applications
Viburnum Redwing offers versatility in landscape design due to its attractive form and multi-season interest. Its dense, upright growth makes it suitable for creating natural privacy screens or informal hedges. When planted in rows, the shrubs can form an effective living barrier, providing both seclusion and aesthetic appeal.
This shrub also functions well as a specimen plant, drawing attention to its distinct red new growth, white flowers, and bright red berries throughout the year. It can be incorporated into mixed shrub borders, adding texture and seasonal color variations. Additionally, its moderate size and dense habit make it a fitting choice for foundation plantings around homes or other structures, softening architectural lines while offering visual interest.