Viburnum suspensum (Sandankwa Viburnum) is a dense evergreen shrub that is prized for its dark green, leathery leaves.
It blooms with small, fragrant, white flowers in the spring. These are soon followed by red berries that turn black at maturity.
These plants grow up to 6 to 12 feet (180 to 365 cm) tall and wide.
Gardeners find use for it in edges, screens, or for use in mass planting in large landscapes. It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 10, and is not presently known to be invasive in the USA.
How to Grow Viburnum suspensum in the Garden
Viburnum suspensum thrives best in full sun to partial shade and readily adapts to a wide range of well-drained soils. While the plant prefers a moderately fertile loam, it can tolerate sand and clay soils too.
Plant in early spring. The planting hole should be as deep as the root ball and double the width. Backfill with soil once planted, and then water generously.
Regular watering is essential, particularly during dry spells. Reduce watering during the winter.
A balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring should help to support healthy growth.
While generally disease and pest-resistant, occasional problems do occur. Regular inspect for pests lsuch as Aphids, Flower thrips, Spider mites, and Root weevils. It can be effected by diseases including Powdery mildew, Armillaria root rot, leaf spot, and canker.
Viburnum suspensum is a versatile and appealing shrub for any garden. Its dense, evergreen foliage, fragrant spring flowers, and berries bring year-round interest.
Whether used as a hedge, screen, or part of a larger landscape design, the plant's adaptability and resilience can make it a rewarding plant to grow.
Quick Viburnum suspensum Growing and Care Guide
Scientific Name: Viburnum suspensum.
Common Names: Sandankwa Viburnum, Sandanqua viburnum, Sandankwa Bush.
Growing Zone (USA / UK Hardiness): USDA Zones: 8-10.
Best Used For / Garden Location: Hedge, screen, or specimen plant.
Plant Details
Life Cycle / Plant Type: Evergreen shrub.
Plant Height: 6-12 ft (1.8-3.6 m).
Plant Spread: 6-10 ft (1.8-3 m).
Blooms: Late winter to early spring.
Flower Details: Clusters of small, fragrant, creamy white flowers.
Leaf Foliage: Glossy, dark green, leathery leaves with a slight serration.
Fruit: Red to black, oval-shaped drupes.
Growing Conditions and Location
Best Light Conditions: Full sun to partial 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-hardwood 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 with its fruit, deer-resistant.
Pests and diseases: Generally pest-free, but may encounter aphids, scale insects, or leaf spots.
Common Cultivars / Varieties: There are no significant cultivars for this species.
Family: Adoxaceae, the Adoxa family.
Native: Japan.
References and Further Reading: North Carolina Extension; Sandankwa Viburnum identification; Viburnum pest and Disease Guide.
Common Questions
Does Viburnum suspensum make a good garden or landscaping plant?
Sandankwa Viburnum, is an excellent garden or landscaping plant. It has a robust nature. This evergreen shrub has dark green foliage, and makes a great choice for hedges and privacy screens.
Is Viburnum suspensum a fragrant plant?
Viburnum suspensum produces small, fragrant white flowers. These emit a sweet aroma, thus adding olfactory delight to your garden.
What is the perfect location to grow Viburnum suspensum?
Plants prefers a location in the garden that has full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. As it is hardy in USDA zones 8-11, it is a good choice for warmer climates.
Is Viburnum suspensum invasive in the USA, if so in which states?
Viburnum suspensum is not thought to be invasive in the US.
How do I remove Sandankwa Viburnum from my garden?
To remove Viburnum suspensum plants, prune back, and then dig out as much of the root system as possible. Monitor for regrowth, and remove new sprouts promptly as they appear.
Summary
Sandankwa Viburnum is a dense, evergreen shrub that grows well in a wide range of soil types. It requires full sun to part shade. Known for its dark green leaves and small, fragrant white flowers, it is an excellent choice for hedges.
I hope that you have enjoyed reading this guide on how to grow Viburnum suspensum. You may also enjoy the following growing guides: How to grow David Viburnum, Weigela florida, and Viburnum tinus plants in the garden.
