Species American cranberrybush

American cranberrybush

Viburnum opulus var. americanum

The American cranberrybush (Viburnum opulus var. americanum) is a stunning shrub or small tree. It typically grows up to 6m tall, with a spreading, somewhat upright form. The foliage is medium-green, and deeply-lobed leaves are toothed. Plant clusters of white or pink-tinged flowers from May to June, which transform into small, round, red berries in the fall. This beneficial plant attracts birds and other wildlife, is tolerant of different soils and can even tolerate damp conditions. Its ornamental appeal makes it a perfect choice for accents and hedging in your garden.

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.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of the American cranberrybush typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

American cranberrybush typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

American cranberrybush typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of the American cranberrybush typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map