Viburnum sargentii (Sargent Cranberry)

Viburnum sargentii (Sargent Cranberry) is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Adoxaceae family. It is native to northeastern Asia, including regions of China, Japan, and Korea. Sargent Cranberry is appreciated for its showy flowers, attractive foliage, and clusters of bright red berries.

Appearance: Sargent Cranberry is a medium-sized shrub that typically grows to a height of 6 to 10 feet (1.8 to 3 meters) with a similar spread. It has an upright, rounded form with arching branches. The branches are often densely covered in reddish-brown hairs, giving them a fuzzy appearance.

Leaves: The leaves of Viburnum sargentii are opposite, simple, and serrated. They are ovate to elliptical in shape and typically measure around 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) in length. The leaves have a dark green color, and in autumn, they often turn shades of reddish-purple or bronze before falling.

Flowers: Sargent Cranberry produces large, showy clusters of flowers in late spring to early summer. The individual flowers are tubular and have five rounded petals. The flowers are typically creamy white in color and create a beautiful display. They are attractive to pollinators, such as bees and butterflies.

Fruits: Following the flowers, Viburnum sargentii develops clusters of bright red berries. The berries are oval-shaped and about 0.4 inches (1 cm) in diameter. They mature in late summer to early fall and persist on the shrub, providing ornamental interest and food for birds throughout the winter.

Growth and Adaptability: Sargent Cranberry is known for its hardiness and adaptability. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including clay and loam. This shrub is relatively low-maintenance and can withstand cold temperatures.

Overall, Viburnum sargentii (Sargent Cranberry) is valued for its beautiful flowers, attractive foliage, and clusters of vibrant red berries. It is a versatile shrub that adds visual interest to the landscape throughout the seasons.