Species American cranberrybush Guide

American cranberrybush

Viburnum opulus var. americanum

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

White Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun, Part sun/part shade

Fruits:

Fruits In Summer Ready In Fall

Edible:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,red,yellow,orange

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

American cranberrybush should be watered every 7–10 days, providing 1-2 inches of water at each watering session. When established, American cranberrybush can survive periods of drought but should be watered during the growing season to prevent leaf scorch and stress. During excessively hot periods, water more frequently as needed, but always generously to keep the shrub well-hydrated. It's best to water deeply and occasionally instead of lightly and frequently. Avoid wetting the foliage when watering as this can result in foliar diseases.

sunlight

The American cranberrybush (Viburnum opulus var. americanum) thrives when placed in full sun to partial shade. It prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day for optimal growth and flowering. If placed in an area of full sun, it should have some shelter or a windbreak from strong, drying winds. In warmer climates, sites with morning sun and afternoon shade help protect the foliage from scorching or from too much direct sun in the afternoon.

pruning

American cranberrybush should be pruned in early spring just as the buds begin to swell. For shrubby plants, prune 1/3 of the stems back to the ground to rejuvenate the plant. For plants that are 6′ or larger, only remove a few of the oldest stems each year and thin out inside the canopy to promote air circulation. Remove any dead, diseased, or broken branches and remove branches that are crossing.