Viburnum davidii, often referred to as David Viburnum, is a robust evergreen shrub that is adored for its dark green, leathery leaves, and metallic blue berries.
The David Viburnum plant can grow to about three feet (90 cm) in height, with a five feet (150 cm) spread.
It is well-suited to many garden settings, including woodland, cottage, and urban gardens.
Plants can grow in areas with an RHS hardiness rating of H6, and can thus thrive in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 9, this plant is not considered invasive in the United States.
How to Grow Viburnum davidii in the Garden
Viburnum davidii prefers a location that provides full sun to partial shade, though it can tolerate deeper shade.
It will grow best in a well-drained, moderately fertile soil. This can be clay, loam, or sand, so long as it has an acidic to neutral pH.
Spring is the optimal planting time. Excavate a hole that is as deep as the root ball. Place the plant in, backfill the removed soil, and then give it a thorough watering.
Once growing, water Viburnum regularly during dry spells, the amount of watering can be reduced during the winter. Provide a slow-release fertilizer in early spring, as this will help to support both its growth and floweringt.
Pests such as aphids and viburnum beetle and diseases like leaf spot can occasionally be an issue. Simply inspect regularly, and remove pests if they occur..
Overall, Viburnum davidii is a hardy, attractive shrub that can add year-long interest and beauty to a garden. With its striking foliage, appealing berries, and resilience to a variety of growing conditions, it can be an excellent choice for your garden.
Quick Viburnum davidii Growing and Care Guide
Scientific Name: Viburnum davidii.
Common Names: David Viburnum, David's Viburnum.
Growing Zone (USA / UK Hardiness): USDA Zones: 7-9.
Best Used For / Garden Location: Low hedges, borders, mass plantings, or as a specimen plant.
Plant Details
Life Cycle / Plant Type: Evergreen shrub.
Plant Height: 2-3 ft (60-90 cm).
Plant Spread: 3-4 ft (90-120 cm).
Blooms: Late spring to early summer.
Flower Details: Small, creamy-white flowers in flattened clusters.
Leaf Foliage: Dark green, leathery, veined leaves with a distinctive herringbone pattern.
Fruit: Bright metallic blue berries on female plants in autumn.
Growing Conditions and Location
Best Light Conditions: Partial shade to full shade.
Suitable Soil Types: Well-drained, fertile soil.
Sowing / planting: Plant in spring or fall, providing adequate spacing.
Germination time: Typically grown from nursery-bought plants.
Propagation: Semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
Plant Care: Regular watering, mulching to conserve moisture.
Growing in pots and containers: Not ideal for containers due to size.
Growing as a House plant: Not suitable for indoor cultivation.
Further Information
Miscellaneous: Attracts birds, particularly with the berries.
Pests and diseases: Generally pest-free, but susceptible to powdery mildew and leaf spot.
Common Cultivars / Varieties: 'Angustifolium' has narrower leaves, 'Gulf Stream' is a compact cultivar.
Family: Adoxaceae, the Adoxa family.
Native: Western China.
References and Further Reading: Viburnum genus by Wikipedia; How to Plant and Care for Viburnum Shrubs; OSU Landscape Plants: David Viburnum.
Common Questions
Does Viburnum davidii make a good garden or landscaping plant?
Viburnum davidii can make for a good garden or landscaping plant. It has attractive, dark green leaves, small white flowers, and blue berries that can add year-round interest to any garden.
Is Viburnum davidii a fragrant plant?
While some species of Viburnum are known for their fragrance, this one is not really considered to be a fragrant plant.
What is the perfect location to grow David Viburnum?
David Viburnum prefers a location with full sun to part shade and a well-drained soil. It can make a good choice for a shrub border.
Is Viburnum davidii invasive in the USA, if so in which states?
Viburnum davidii is not thought to be invasive in the USA.
How do I remove Viburnum davidii from my garden?
To remove David Viburnum from the garden, first prune it back, then dig out as much of the root system as possible. Monitor the area for regrowth. Remove any new sprouts promptly.
Summary
David Viburnum is an evergreen shrub that thrives in well-drained soil under full sun to part shade. Its white flowers bloom in spring, followed by blue berries, offering year-round garden interest.
I hope that you have enjoyed reading this guide on how to grow Viburnum davidii. You may also enjoy the following shrub growing guides: How to grow Viburnum tinus, Sandankwa viburnum, Weigela Florida Alexandra, Weigela Florida Variegata, and Ixora coccinea plants in the garden.
