Viburnum tinus aka Laurestine

Viburnum tinus, or laurustinus, is an evergreen shrub in Viburnaceae. It comes from the Mediterranean region of Europe and northern Africa. Its range also reaches parts of western Asia. It grows in scrub and woods, often near the sea. It also grows on rocky, wooded slopes. In gardens, it forms a dense, upright or rounded bush. It can also grow as a small tree. Garden plants reach 6–12 feet [1.8–3.7 metres] tall. Their spread reaches 6–10 feet [1.8–3.05 metres]. RHS gives upper limits near 13 feet [4 metres] for both.

Several stems support the bush's dense crown. The leaves grow in opposite pairs and have smooth edges. Their shape ranges from narrow ovals to oblongs. The upper surface looks glossy and dark green. The underside is paler, with small tufts of hair. Leaf stalks also bear hairs. Leaves can reach about 0.33 feet [0.10 metres] long. The foliage stays green throughout the year.

Pink buds open into small, white or creamy flowers. Their scent draws interest during winter and spring. Flower clusters form terminal cymes at the branch tips. Bloom dates vary between sources, from late winter into June. Bees and butterflies visit the flowers. The fruit is a small, oval drupe with one seed. Its metallic blue skin turns dark purple or black. Birds eat the fruit. Planting more than one nearby can improve fruit set.

Grow it in sun or part shade with good drainage. It also tolerates deeper shade and salt spray. Rich loam suits it, but clay works when drainage is sound. It accepts sandy and chalk soils across a broad pH range. Keep the soil evenly moist for best growth. Established plants withstand short dry spells. USDA zones 8–10 suit it; RHS rates it H4. Cold winds and frost can harm twigs and flower buds. It needs little pruning, though it tolerates hard cuts.

Use it for hedges, screens, borders, or a single specimen. Its leaves, flowers, and fruit give gardens year-round interest. Deer resistance is mild rather than complete. Major pest problems are uncommon, but aphids and viburnum beetle can attack. Thrips, mites, and scale may also occur. Disease risks include mildew, leaf spot, grey mould, and honey fungus. Wet soil with poor drainage raises the risk of root rot. PFAF lists no food or medicinal uses. RHS warns that people and pets must not eat the fruit.