Plantoftheweek

VIBURNUM OPULUS VAR. XANTHOCARPUM

OUR native Guelder Rose, Viburnum opulus is a common shrub, often found along woodland edges or in hedgerows. Like many wild shrubs, it also has excellent garden value. Happy in almost every soil type, it will thrive anywhere. Creamy late-spring blossoms, vivid red berries and richly coloured autumn foliage are three good reasons for including it in your shrubbery. Berries on the variety V. xanthocarpum, ripen to banana yellow. They contrast attractively with the warmer oranges and reds of other berry bearers. Another advantage is that birds prefer red berries, finishing those before moving to the yellows.