Viburnum carlesii Caprifoliaceae

The Viburnum carlesii is a round and bushy bush that forms from its base and is adorned with deciduous and pubescent foliage, dark green with remarkable shades of orange-red. During spring, when its leaves are budding, numerous round bouquets of pink floral buds open into waxy flowers, first white-pink and then pure white, with an intoxicating scent of orange blossom. Hardy and easy to grow, it can be planted in full sun or partial shade in any soil that is not too chalky, ordinary, and moist. It can be used as a hedge, in the background of a flowerbed, or as a standalone plant near the house to fully enjoy its flowering.

The Viburnum carlesii offers a flowering with a most delicious scent among the viburnums. This Korean shrub forms a regular rounded bush of 2 meters (6 feet 7 inches) in all directions with oval, pointed, finely dentate, and very villous foliage on the underside, which regrows in spring. In April-May, the small flowers grouped in white spheres of 5 to 7 cm (2 to 2.8 in) in diameter release a powerful scent of orange blossom. Its buds are pink and gradually turn white during flowering, creating a subtle gradient of colours that stands out perfectly against the dark foliage that is gradually unfolding and developing. The deciduous shrub is adorned with flamboyant red colours in autumn before losing its leaves. The flowers are followed in September-October by spherical clusters of red then black fruits, extending the ornamental interest throughout part of winter.

Hardy up to -20°C, the Viburnum carlesii can be used as a standalone to attract attention in small gardens or as a hedge or in a flowerbed in larger gardens. Its inflorescences can be used for making bouquets. Consider planting it in a high-traffic area to fully enjoy its scent, such as near a window or door.