Viburnum plicatum 'Mariesii'

A large deciduous layered shaped shrub growing to a height of 2m and width of 2m, but responds well to pruning to maintain shape in a landscape setting.

'Mariesii' is a large Viburnum hybrid with wide-spreading tiered branches and prominently veined dark green oval shaped leaves that turn purple-red in autumn giving good autumn colour. In late spring large flat heads of creamy-white flowers are produced in great numbers. Small red berries follow that eventually ripen to black.

Plant in sun or part shade in moist but well-drained soil but will tolerate a wide range of soil types. Tolerates very hard frosts.

Always choose healthy, well grown plants and plant after autumn rains as the soil is moist and warm and allows plants to become established before winter. This enables them to withstand dry periods during the following summer. Young plants require thorough watering during dry periods over the first two or three years. Mulching helps to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Before planting ensure the root ball is saturated and remove the planter bag or pot with minimal root disturbance. Trim any broken roots and plant at the same level as in the container. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball and firm in and water once planted. Make sure plants are watered well until established if planting in a drier period. Plant with some general slow release fertiliser and then every spring apply an organic based fertiliser such as blood and bone at a handful per square meter as new growth emerges. The worst fate for a shrub is to be planted in a hole where the root ball is allowed to sink below the surrounding ground level. Therefore it is generally desirable to plant shrubs into slightly raised beds of well cultivated soil. This improves drainage and provides near surface roots with well aerated soil in which to grow.

Mulching annually helps suppress weeds and conserve moisture. Organic materials such as sawdust and bark contribute to soil structure as they decompose but keep mulching material away from the trunk. They benefit from a dressing (50g/m2) of general purpose fertiliser in early spring as new growth begins this will encourage more vigorous healthy growth. Sprinkle evenly and work into the top 2 to 3cm of the soil taking care not to damage surface roots.

The first summer and autumn after planting is critical for young plants; water thoroughly during dry periods. Pests and diseases can have serious debilitating effects on young plants; check regularly.

Viburnum plicatum and hybrids rarely require pruning unless they end up needing restrictive pruning to keep within allotted space. This is best carried out after flowering but does respond well to pruning. Other than this restrict pruning to removal of deadwood and reshaping of the shrubs during winter.

May be affected by leaf spot.

Spring Blossom Valley