description Viburnum opulus Overview
Viburnum opulus, commonly called guelder rose, is a deciduous shrub native to Europe, northern Africa, and parts of Asia. It produces flat clusters of white flowers in late spring, with larger sterile flowers around the margin, followed by translucent red fruits that often persist into winter. It is grown in wildlife gardens, mixed hedges, and moist landscape sites, while cultivars such as the snowball bush are selected for rounded clusters of sterile flowers.
insights Ranking position
Viburnum opulus ranks #169 of 535 in the Shrub ranking, behind Calycanthus floridus, ahead of Chaenomeles speciosa.
help Viburnum opulus FAQ
What is the common name for Viburnum opulus?
Viburnum opulus is commonly called the guelder rose, though it is also known as the European cranberrybush. It is a deciduous shrub native to Europe, northern Africa, and parts of Asia.
What do guelder rose flowers look like?
The shrub produces flat clusters of white flowers in late spring. These clusters feature larger, showy sterile flowers around the margins, which surround the smaller, fertile flowers in the center.
Does Viburnum opulus produce fruit?
Yes, the plant develops translucent red fruits that often persist on the arching branches well into the winter. While they resemble cranberries, these berries are generally considered mildly toxic and unpalatable to humans.
What is the difference between Viburnum opulus and the Snowball tree?
The popular garden plant known as the Snowball tree or bush is actually a sterile cultivar of Viburnum opulus called 'Roseum'. Unlike the wild guelder rose, the Snowball bush produces entirely round, globe-like clusters of sterile flowers and yields no fruit.
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