Korean Spice Viburnum

(Viburnum carlesii)

Korean Spice Viburnum (Viburnum carlesii)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Viburnum carlesii, commonly known as Korean Spice Viburnum or Arrowwood, is a deciduous shrub native to woodland margins and forest clearings in Korea and Japan. It is also naturalized in parts of Ohio, USA. This species typically grows to 2 m (7 ft) tall and wide, featuring a rounded form with branches that often arch. The leaves are oval and exhibit a striking copper color when young, maturing to a deep green. In late spring, round clusters of red buds blossom into highly fragrant, pale pink flowers, which are quite showy and attract pollinators. By late summer, these flowers give way to oval red fruits that mature to black in autumn, providing visual interest and food for wildlife.

Korean Spice Viburnum is valued for its aromatic flowers and attractive foliage, making it a popular choice for sensory gardens and as a specimen or border plant in residential landscapes. It is relatively easy to maintain, requiring medium water and thriving in full sun to part shade. The shrub prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, from clay to loam. While generally pest-resistant, it can occasionally suffer from fungal diseases such as leaf spot or powdery mildew.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 4-6 feet
  • Width: 4-7 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Hedges, Hummingbird Garden, Rabbit Resistant, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Woodland margins and forest clearings in Korea and Japan, and naturalized in Ohio, USA

Other Names

Common Names: Luktolvon, Sweet Viburnum, Arrowwood, 분꽃나무

Scientific Names: , Viburnum carlesii, Solenolantana carlesii,

GBIF Accepted Name: Viburnum carlesii Hemsl. ex Forbes & Hemsl.