Viburnum ellipticum, commonly known as Oval-leaf Viburnum, is a deciduous shrub native to the Pacific Northwest and California, where it thrives in a variety of habitats including open woodlands, forest edges, and chaparral. It typically grows to a height of 3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters) and a similar width, with a rounded form and arching branches. The leaves are elliptical, hence the name, and the shrub produces flat-topped cymes of small, white flowers in late spring to early summer. The flowers are modestly showy, with each bloom measuring 6 to 8 millimeters across and featuring five whiskery white stamens. Following the flowering season, the plant bears drupes about a centimeter long that mature to a blue-black color, providing visual interest and food for wildlife.

Oval-leaf Viburnum is valued for its adaptability and the textural quality it adds to landscapes. It is used for naturalistic plantings, as a component of mixed shrub borders, and in restoration projects. This Viburnum is relatively low-maintenance, tolerating a range of light conditions from full sun to part shade. It prefers medium to high amounts of water and soils with medium drainage. While generally pest-free, it can occasionally suffer from fungal diseases such as leaf spot. It is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease problems, making it a reliable choice for gardeners.CC BY-SA 4.0