Viburnum sieboldii aka Siebold's Arrowwood

Viburnum sieboldii, or Siebold viburnum, comes from central and southern Japan. It belongs to the Viburnaceae family and grows in temperate climates. This large shrub sheds its leaves each year. Gardeners can also train it as a small tree. Most garden plants reach 15–20 feet [4.6–6.1 metres] tall. Their spread reaches 10–15 feet [3–4.6 metres]. RHS gives a broader upper limit of 26 feet [8 metres] for both dimensions.

Several stems form an upright plant with a rounded outline. Stiff branches leave gaps within its crown, giving it an open form. It grows at a medium rate and has stout gray stems. Dark gray bark develops plates that look like reptile skin. Large, simple leaves grow in pairs along the stems. Their oval blades have toothed edges and a glossy green surface. Pale hairs cover parts of the leaf undersides. Crushed leaves release a bad smell. Sources disagree on autumn color. Some report red or purple tones; others report little change.

Small cream-white flowers form broad, flat-topped cymes in late spring. Chicago Botanic Garden lists the bloom season as May to June. The clusters can cover much of the plant. Their scent can be unpleasant, despite their showy appearance. Oval drupes follow the flowers on bright red stalks. These fruits turn from pink or red to black. UConn reports that they ripen in September. Birds eat the fruit, but uneaten fruit may last into winter. RHS warns that people and pets should not eat it.

Grow this shrub in sun or partial shade. It prefers moist soil that drains well, with loam a good choice. It also accepts clay, sand, and a broad pH range. Keep soil moisture steady rather than letting the roots dry out. Dry soil can cause leaf scorch. Cool summers suit it best; sources advise against planting beyond USDA zone 7. Chicago lists USDA zones 4–7, while RHS assigns H6. It needs little pruning. Cut after bloom when needed, though this reduces the fruit display.

Use it in borders, hedges, screens, or small groups. A single plant can serve as a specimen. Its flowers and fruit bring interest, while its fruit draws birds. NC State reports some resistance to deer. UConn and Missouri Botanical Garden report few serious pest or disease problems. RHS lists possible aphids and viburnum beetle. It also lists Phytophthora, honey fungus, gray mould, and leaf spot.