Tea Viburnum

A medium to large sized deciduous shrub. Viburnum setigerum has distinctive foliage that takes on colours throughout  the seasons, from metallic blue-green in the Spring, green in Summer and finally Autumnal oranges and yellows. Heads of creamy-white flowers are produced in April and May, followed by an abundance of red oval fruit which hang in pendulous clusters. Viburnum setigerum is one of the best Viburnums for Autumn berries. The old Chinese monks used the leaves to produce a sweet tea, though the berries can cause tummy upsets. This is a great plant- a choice garden shrub with excellent interest.

Site: Tolerates some exposure
Soil: Prefers well drained, acidic soils, tolerant of alkaline soils
Position: Full sun, some shade
Season of Interest: Spring flowers, Autumn berries, Attractive foliage
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: 8-13ft (2.5-4m)  Spread: 5-8ft (1.5-2.5m)