The leatherleaf plant is also known as the leatherleaf viburnum. This medium-sized bush is native to China, even though nowadays it can be found everywhere around the world.
Continue reading about this plant and discover how easy it is to maintain this gorgeous bush:
Basic Facts about Viburnum rhytidophyllum
- This plant’s botanical name is Viburnum rhytidophyllum. This deciduous shrub belongs to the Adoxaceae family of plants.
- According to the USDA, it will thrive best in zones 5 to 8. Even though it has naturalized in many parts of North America, in some states such as Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia, or South Carolina, this bush is considered an invasive species. As a result, it is prohibited to plant it in those specific areas.
- Besides, it can rapidly grow up to 10 feet in height, making it even more threatening in those areas where this bush is prohibited.
- This bush produces white flowers that welcome pollinators in early spring.
- It also has bright red berries after the flowers fade in the early fall. This fruit will be red but will eventually change its color to glossy black.Â
- Many birds love the taste of the berries; thus, they will consume the fruit and drop the seeds everywhere, making it difficult to control how many leatherleaf shrubs appear in nature.
- Additionally, this plant can self-sow too; therefore, the plant can quickly expand its range and invade different areas.
How To Care for Leatherleaf Viburnum
Do remember this shrub is often considered an invasive species. Always check first whether your state allows you to plant the leatherleaf berry bush.
If planting this species is not allowed in your area, you should definitely consider paying close attention to your governmental rules. If not, you could get into real trouble, or you could seriously damage the natural areas of your zone.Â
In places where winters are colder, it may die back during the winter. Put the plant somewhere that will protect it from the winter winds.
Light Requirements
The leatherleaf viburnum requires to be fully exposed under full sun. It prefers to have up to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Some shrubs will survive in partial shade, but it will depend on the agricultural zone they are in.
If summers are dry and too hot, then it would be best to protect the shrub by placing it in a partially shaded place. On the contrary, if winters are too strong and windy, it is advisable to plant leatherleaf viburnum in a sheltered area.Â
Water Needs
The leatherleaf viburnum is not too demanding when it comes to its water needs. As long as its soil is moist, it will do great. It has some drought tolerance once established. If there are prolonged periods or seasons of droughts, it is advisable to water regularly and thoroughly.
Every other day, for example, will be great for this plant. On the other hand, if there is a rainy season or if the area tends to flood, then it would be best to protect it by placing it under a partially shaded area.
Soil Preferences
The leatherleaf is not picky when it comes to the soil they are growing in. However, this plant grows best in well-drained soil. In terms of the soil’s consistency, they will do great in acid soil, and they will tolerate alkaline or clay soil.
Fertilizer
Leatherleaf viburnum (Viburnum rhytidophyllum) typically thrives in moderately fertile, well-drained soil. When considering its fertilizer requirements, aim for a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants.
Apply in early spring before new growth begins, following package instructions carefully to avoid over-fertilization. During freezing temperatures, it’s essential to minimize fertilization to prevent damage to the plant’s roots and overall health.
Always monitor soil conditions and adjust fertilization accordingly to ensure optimal growth and resilience in varying weather conditions.
Pests and Diseases
Leatherleaf viburnum is a hardy shrub that is generally resistant to most diseases. However, it can be susceptible to a few problems, including gray mold, downy mildew, powdery mildew, leaf spots, aphids, viburnum beetles, scale insects, weevils, Japanese beetles, and mealybugs.
To prevent these problems, avoid overwatering and ensure that the plant has good air circulation. Prune the plant regularly and remove any infested leaves.
Pruning
This shrub prefers to grow in a long upright habit instead of growing on its width. This barberry tends to show off by having large stems with large and multiple leaves. It creates a magnificent shade; although, it is definitely a slow grower.
Try pruning some of the stems. This way, you can be sure that there will be new growth in no time.
In addition, as soon as this shrub blooms and all the flowers drop off, the Viburnum rhytidophyllum will start forming new buds for its growth cycle for the following year. Ideally, it is best to prune this shrub as soon as the flowers have completely gone. This way, you will make sure that your tree is growing the way you want it to grow.
Lastly, if the shrub is looking old or if the weather has not been good on it, you could try cutting it to the ground level. This way, the shrub will redirect all of its energy toward its regrowth.Â
Uses
Leatherleaf viburnum creamy white flowers light up the spring landscape, while its bright red berries can last into winter and attract birds.
Leatherleaf viburnum can be used as a hedge or as a background plant in mixed shrub borders. It is also effective in massing and can be used to hide unsightly outbuildings or travel trailers.
The leatherleaf viburnum’s dark-green foliage is also desirable and can be used to add texture to a garden. It also looks great as a specimen plant. In the late spring, when the flowers are in bloom, and in the summer and fall, when the berries hang from the branches, it makes a very showy display.
FAQs
Is Leatherleaf viburnum an evergreen?
Leatherleaf viburnum (Viburnum rhytidophyllum) is a semi-evergreen shrub, meaning it retains some of its foliage year-round in mild climates but may lose some leaves during cold winters.
What is the best fertilizer for Leatherleaf viburnum?
For Leatherleaf viburnum, use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants. Choose one with a formulation such as 10-10-10 or 12-12-12, applied in spring according to package instructions.
How big do Leatherleaf Arrowwood get?
Leatherleaf Arrowwood (Viburnum rhytidophyllum) can grow up to 6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters) tall and wide at maturity, depending on growing conditions and pruning practices.
Is Leatherleaf annual or perennial?
Leatherleaf viburnum is a perennial shrub, meaning it lives for multiple years and regrows each spring after going dormant in winter.
Conclusion
The leatherleaf is a showy shrub that everybody loves! If there is a difficult place in a garden and other shrubs seem to dislike this particular area, chances are the Viburnum rhytidophyllum will thrive in that spot!
Also, its creamy white blooms never fail to impress those who admire them. And pollinators are often attracted to the blooms’ colors, scent, and shapes. Besides, birds are known for devouring the berries this shrub produces; thus, if you plant this species, you will be giving food to other species as well!
With these leatherleaf viburnum care tips, gardeners can enjoy the beauty and versatility of this plant in their landscapes.
*image by simonapavan/depositphotos
