Viburnum japonicum aka Japanese Viburnum

Viburnum japonicum, or Japanese viburnum, belongs to the Viburnaceae family. Its native range includes Japan, southern Korea, and Zhejiang in China. It grows in coastal scrub and forests in Japan. This evergreen shrub forms a dense, rounded bush. Garden plants reach about 6–8 feet [1.8–2.5 metres] tall and wide. Growth is slow, with maturity reached in five to ten years.

The leaves are oval, thick, and glossy green above. Their undersides are paler and bear many small, dark dots. Some leaves have slight teeth or waves along their edges. Leaves can reach 0.5 feet [0.15 metres] long. The shrub may lose some or all leaves near its northern limits. This change depends on the cold at its planting site.

Small white flowers form dense clusters in late spring or early summer. Their strong scent adds interest near paths and garden borders. Young plants may produce fewer blooms than older shrubs. Red fruits ripen in autumn and may stay through winter. Each oval fruit holds one large seed. Birds visit for the fruit, and the shrub also attracts butterflies.

Grow it in sun or partial shade with good drainage. It also tolerates sites with almost full shade. Give it steady moisture and shelter from cold, drying winds. Afternoon shade helps in regions with hot summers. It accepts clay, loam, sand, and chalk soils across a broad pH range. USDA zones 7–9 suit it; the RHS rates it H4. Zone 6 planting needs a sheltered spot and winter mulch. Its dense growth suits informal hedges, screens, and foundation beds. It also fits woodland edges and mixed shrub borders.

Care needs are low, and serious pest problems are uncommon. Aphids, scale, and viburnum beetle can still attack it. Possible diseases include leaf spot, mildews, crown gall, and grey mould. Honey fungus and Phytophthora may also cause trouble. Sources disagree about food use and safety. PFAF lists raw or cooked fruit and cooked leaves as edible. It describes the leaves as food used only during famine. The RHS warns that people and pets should not eat the fruit. Given that conflict, treat the berries as ornamental rather than food.