Viburnum opulus aka Highbush Cranberry
Taxonomy
Viburnum opulus, also known as guelder-rose or guelder rose, is a flowering plant in the Adoxaceae family. It is native to Europe, northern Africa, and central Asia. This hardy and vigorous native shrub is perfect for growing in woodland gardens or a shrub border. It produces large, lacecap-like, white flowers in late spring and early summer, followed by bright red fruit in autumn. Its dark green leaves turn a striking shade of red before falling. Viburnum opulus prefers moist but well-drained soil and can grow in full sun to full shade. However, it is invasive in certain states such as Indiana, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Another species of Viburnum is the American Cranberrybush Viburnum, which is a relatively rare houseplant. It requires regular watering and direct light, and should be less than 1 foot away from a window. The plant prefers well-draining soil and should be repotted each time it doubles in size. The American Cranberrybush Viburnum is native to Europe and belongs to the Viburnum genus.
Common names
Highbush Cranberry, Guelder Rose, SnowballHow to care for Highbush Cranberry
Difficulty
Highbush Cranberry presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.
Water
Highbush Cranberry should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Highbush Cranberry 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 Highbush Cranberry prefers bright diffused 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.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it's common for Highbush Cranberry to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.
Fertilizer
The growth rate of Highbush Cranberry is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.
Growth-pattern
Highbush Cranberry grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.
Region of origin
Highbush Cranberry’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia south and east to Spain, north and west Asia.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Viburnum Genus
Viburnum erosum
Viburnum furcatum
Viburnum rufidulum Blue Haw
Viburnum foetens
Viburnum rafinesquianum Downy Arrow Wood
Viburnum luzonicum
Viburnum plicatum Japanese Snowball
Viburnum lantanoides Hobblebush
Viburnum farreri Fragrant Viburnum
