Viburnum farreri, commonly known as Fragrant Viburnum, is a deciduous shrub native to the scrub and forest margins in North-Central China and the province of Qinghai. It typically grows to a height of 3 meters (10 feet) and a width of 2.5 meters (8 feet). This plant features clusters of sweetly perfumed, pink-tinged white flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring, providing a valuable source of nectar for pollinators when few other plants are in flower. Its dark green leaves emerge with a bronze tint in spring, maturing to a lush green in summer and then turning brilliant shades of red-purple in autumn, adding seasonal interest to the garden.

Viburnum farreri is valued for its fragrant flowers, attractive foliage, and its adaptability to a range of soil types, making it a versatile choice for urban planting, border planting, and as a specimen shrub. It thrives in moist but well-drained soil and can tolerate both sun and partial shade. While it generally requires medium amounts of water, it is relatively low maintenance once established. This plant has earned the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit, indicating its exceptional performance in gardens. Gardeners should be aware that Viburnum species can be susceptible to pests such as viburnum leaf beetle and diseases like powdery mildew, though V. farreri is not known for serious problems.CC BY-SA 4.0