Viburnum tinus (Laurustine, Laurustinus Viburnum)

Viburnum tinus (Laurustine, Laurustinus Viburnum) is an evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region, including parts of southern Europe and North Africa. It is a popular ornamental plant known for its attractive flowers, glossy foliage, and colorful berries.

Appearance: Laurustine is a dense, compact shrub that typically grows to a height of 6 to 12 feet (1.8 to 3.6 meters) with a similar spread. It has a rounded form and dense branching. The shrub has dark green, leathery leaves that are oval to lance-shaped and arranged in an opposite manner.

Flowers: Viburnum tinus produces clusters of small, fragrant flowers that appear in late winter to early spring. The flowers are typically pinkish-white and are held in flattened clusters called cymes. They provide valuable early-season blooms when many other plants are dormant.

Fruits: Following the flowers, Viburnum tinus develops small, rounded berries that mature from green to shades of metallic blue-black. These berries are not typically consumed by humans but are attractive to birds, which help in seed dispersal.

Evergreen Foliage: One of the notable features of Laurustine is its glossy, evergreen foliage. The leaves remain on the plant throughout the year, providing year-round interest and serving as a backdrop for other plants in the landscape.

Growth and Adaptability: Viburnum tinus is a relatively hardy shrub that can tolerate a range of growing conditions. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It can adapt to different soil types, including clay and sandy soils. Laurustine is known to be somewhat drought-tolerant once established.

Uses: Laurustine is widely cultivated as an ornamental shrub in gardens and landscapes. It can be used as a hedge, specimen plant, or as part of mixed borders. The attractive flowers and glossy foliage make it a popular choice for adding color and texture to the landscape, particularly during the winter and early spring seasons.

Overall, Viburnum tinus (Laurustine) is valued for its evergreen nature, attractive flowers, and adaptability, making it a versatile and popular choice for ornamental planting.