Viburnum odoratissimum aka Sweet Arrowwood

Viburnum odoratissimum is known as sweet viburnum. It belongs to the family Viburnaceae. This Asian shrub can also form a small tree. Its native range includes northeast India, China, Japan, and Southeast Asia. It grows in warm regions, including subtropical areas. Garden plants reach about 10–20 feet [3–6.1 metres] tall. Their spread reaches 15–20 feet [4.6–6.1 metres]. Useful Tropical Plants reports heights of 20–33 feet [6–10 metres]. Exceptional plants reach about 49 feet [15 metres].

The crown is dense, upright, and rounded. The plant keeps its leaves through winter in warmer sites. Near its northern limit, it may lose some or all leaves. Its large leaves grow in opposite pairs along the stems. They feel thick and leathery and have an olive-green shade. Their shape ranges from oval to egg-shaped. Leaf edges are smooth or have a few teeth. Pinnate veins branch from the main vein through each leaf. The foliage has no marked fall color. Thin bark needs protection from knocks and other physical damage.

Small white flowers have a funnel shape and a strong scent. They form cone-shaped panicles at the tips of stems. Missouri Botanical Garden gives May to July as the bloom period. NC State places flowering in spring. Butterflies visit the flowers. The fruit consists of small drupes with one seed each. These turn from red to black as they ripen. Fruit appears in fall, and birds eat it. Plants need a genetically distinct partner nearby to set fertile seed. Useful Tropical Plants reports this need for cross-fertilization.

Grow sweet viburnum in sun or partial shade. Afternoon shade helps in places with hot summers. It grows best with steady moisture and good soil drainage. It accepts clay, loam, and sand. Rich, deep loam suits it well. Established plants can withstand some drought. USDA zones 7–9 form its supported hardiness range. Growth is moderate, and routine care is light. Leave enough room for its mature size. Heavy pruning can leave the plant sparse and leggy.

Use it for hedges, screens, borders, or planting near buildings. It also suits open woodland sites with room to spread. Serious pests and diseases are not usual. Aphids, scale, bacterial leaf spot, mildews, and crown gall remain possible. PFAF lists the fruit as edible but gives few details. PFAF and Useful Tropical Plants report no known hazards. That does not establish safety for every person or pet.