Featured image by David J Stang
By Sandra Nelson
This week’s pick is by Dan Nelson, Lead Designer at Embassy Landscape Group
Doublefile Viburnum
Reminiscent of a dogwood tree, the doublefile virburnum, “Mariesii” is a true spring beauty.
Photo Credit: KENPEI
Like so many of the old-fashioned favorites, doublefile viburnum is staging a comeback in gardens around the world. This easy to grow deciduous shrub thrives in full sun to partial shade. It needs moist, average soil in well-drained, but somewhat protected location. Depending on the growing conditions, doublefile viburnum Mariesii can reach 10 to 12 feet in height with a spread of up to 15 feet.
Photo Credit:David J. Stang
Especially known for its 4 to 6 inch showy white flowers which appear in late spring, Mariesii also offers striking dark green foliage accented by attractive red berries in the summer and deep purple foliage in the fall. With its unique horizontal and layered shape, it makes a beautiful specimen planting on its own or as a seasonal focal point in a mixed border.
Photo Credit:David J. Stang
Like other virburnums, Mariesii is rarely bothered by pests or diseases. Any necessary pruning should be done immediately after flowering since blooms occur on the previous year’s wood. Make sure to water thoroughly and consistently during periods of drought. Although hardy to zone 5, Mariesii will occasionally die back to the ground during periods of extremely cold temperatures.
Mariesii attracts both birds and butterflies.
Zones: 5 – 8
