Viburnum erosum

Viburnum erosum, called beech viburnum or jagged viburnum, is a deciduous shrub. It belongs to the Viburnaceae family and comes from temperate East Asia. Its range includes central and southern China, Korea, Japan, and Taiwan. In Japan, it grows on sunny hills and lower mountain slopes. It forms an upright, bushy plant with a moderate growth rate. Garden plants reach about 5–8 feet [1.5–2.5 metres] tall. Spread ranges from about 3–8 feet [0.9–2.5 metres], depending on the source. Plants take about five to ten years to reach full size.

Slender young stems bear pale brown hairs. The green leaves grow in opposite pairs on short stalks. Each simple leaf has a pointed tip and sharp teeth. Leaf shapes range from oval to broader near the tip. Star-shaped hairs cover both sides, with more beneath. The leaf base may be rounded or wedge-shaped. In autumn, the leaves turn orange-red, copper, or bronze. This gives the shrub a second season of colour.

Small white flowers form flat cymes in spring. Sources place flowering from mid-spring through late spring or early summer. Each cluster spans about 0.16–0.25 feet [0.05–0.08 metres]. The flowers draw pollinators, and the shrub also attracts songbirds. Red drupes follow the flowers from summer into autumn. These small, oval fruits each hold one large seed. Their bright colour adds interest as the growing season ends.

Grow this shrub in sun or partial shade. Give it moist soil that drains well and has moderate fertility. NC State recommends acid soil, including clay and loam. The RHS also accepts sand, chalk, and neutral or alkaline soils. Choose a sheltered site. NC State lists USDA zones 6a–9b; the RHS gives H5. The shrub needs little upkeep and only light pruning. Prune after flowering when needed, but expect fewer fruits. Use it in hedges, foundation beds, small groups, or wildlife gardens.

Aphids, viburnum beetle, and purple mite may cause trouble. Possible diseases include Phytophthora, honey fungus, grey mould, and leaf spot. Sources disagree about food safety. PFAF lists fruit as edible, raw or cooked, and reports no known hazards. The RHS warns that people and pets should not eat it. Treat the fruit as ornamental rather than food. The RHS also advises gloves and protective wear when handling this shrub.