Viburnum odoratissimum aka Sweet Arrowwood

Taxonomy

Genus Viburnum Family Viburnaceae Order Dipsacales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Viburnum odoratissimum, also known as sweet viburnum, is a large, vigorous evergreen shrub or small tree that belongs to the genus Viburnum. Native to Asia, it is commonly cultivated as a garden ornamental in other regions. The shrub/tree can reach heights of up to 5m and has warty bark and glossy green leaves that are elliptic to oblong in shape, measuring up to 20cm long. The leaves are shallowly serrated towards the tips. During summer, the plant produces cone-shaped clusters of small, highly fragrant white flowers. These flowers are followed by small oval-shaped berries that turn from red to black as they mature. Viburnums, as a genus, encompass approximately 150 species of shrubs and trees. The foliage of Viburnums can be evergreen, semi-evergreen, or deciduous, depending on the specific species. The leaves are arranged oppositely or in whorls of three and can be ribbed, lustrous, toothed, or lobed. In the autumn, the leaves of deciduous viburnums take on warm shades. The flowers of Viburnums are typically grouped in panicles, cymes, bunches, or corymbs and almost always have five lobes. The flower colors can range from white and cream to pink. After flowering, vibrant red fruits become visible, although they are not edible for humans, they are enjoyed by birds. While Viburnum species usually bloom in the spring, there are exceptions such as Viburnum tinus, which flowers in winter.

Common names

Sweet Arrowwood, Awabuki Viburnum, Sweet Viburnum

How to care for Sweet Arrowwood

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Sweet Arrowwood, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Water

Sweet Arrowwood should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Sweet Arrowwood loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Sweet Arrowwood prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

The growth of Sweet Arrowwood is gradual and it doesn't necessitate any additional fertilizers. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should suffice to provide the plant with sufficient nutrition. It's important to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun's rays, not fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.

Region of origin

Sweet Arrowwood’s native range is E. Asia - China, Japan, India, Burma.

More info:
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More Species in Viburnum Genus

Viburnum erubescens

Viburnum luzonicum

Viburnum edule Mooseberry

Viburnum davidii David Viburnum

Viburnum rafinesquianum Downy Arrow Wood

Viburnum juddii

Viburnum lentago Nannyberry

Viburnum mongolicum

Viburnum prunifolium Blackhaw

Viburnum recognitum Northern Arrow Wood