Viburnum odoratissimum

The Viburnum odoratissimum, commonly known as Sweet Viburnum, is an evergreen bush with glossy green foliage that is particularly decorative. In spring, it is covered with small, lightly scented white bouquets. In autumn, some leaves turn beautiful shades of red-orange, which is quite unusual for an evergreen. This bush can be used as a hedge, but it is sensitive to cold drafts. In cold climates, it is therefore preferable to provide it with the shelter of a small tree above it.

The Sweet Viburnum is native to the small Himalayan mountains. It belongs to the genus Viburnum (now classified in the Adoxaceae family), which includes very ornamental bushes such as the Snowball Bush (Viburnum opulus 'Roseum'), the laurustinus (Viburnum tinus), and the Chinese snowball bush (Viburnum plicatum). This species is no exception; it is a large bush with evergreen leaves of a beautiful bright green, elongated and shiny, which often take on beautiful orange hues in autumn. Between May and June, the Sweet Viburnum produces numerous panicles of white flowers turning creamy white that attract many insects.

This viburnum grows relatively slowly at first, with a somewhat gangly and irregular habit, then gradually balances itself by forming a large ball about 2 m (6 ft 7 in) in all directions, or even slightly wider than high depending on the space it has. In mild climates, it can reach 2.50 to 3 m (8 ft 2 in to 9 ft 10 in). Not picky, this bush adapts to most soils that are not too dry. The only drawback is that it tends to constantly shed its old leaves, which can be unpleasant in windy conditions. Its beautiful glossy foliage is satiny, almost shiny, and its thick, almost fleshy leaves have a healthy appearance. As an autumnal coquetry, some turn red like some deciduous shrubs, even though this viburnum is evergreen even in cold climates.
As for its hardiness, it is often said to be limited to mild climates like Brittany, while the bush easily withstands the climate of Orléans. In cold winters, the foliage may freeze a little, but it regrows in spring. The flowering appears in May-June, and while not remarkable, it is pleasant especially for its fragrance and delights bees. Above all, it produces small decorative fruits, red and then black, which birds feed on.

Not demanding, Viburnum odoratissimum should be placed in a location that is not too exposed to wind. Prefer a protected environment, for example behind a wall, or in the light shade of small trees like the Mountain Ash or a flowering apple tree like the Malus Coccinella Courtarou, whose purple foliage will contrast nicely with that of the Viburnum. Its beautiful shiny green foliage will be perfectly suited for creating powerful contrasts, by planting golden masses next to it, such as the small Choisya Aztec Gold, with its magnificent patterns, whose fine foliage will contrast both in form and colour. For an even bolder choice, try the surprising Albizia julibrissin Summer Chocolate, with its fern-like foliage in a stunning dark purple, or the Physocarpus 'Diabolo', also purple and with decorative bark in winter.