How tall do viburnum bushes grow?

Viburnums: How Tall Will They Really Get? A Gardener’s Guide

Viburnums! Aren’t they just fantastic? I mean, seriously, these shrubs and small trees are showstoppers. They give you gorgeous foliage, those wonderfully fragrant flowers that perfume the air, and then – bam! – colorful berries that pop against the greenery. No wonder they’re so popular for adding a touch of class (and wildlife appeal!) to gardens and landscapes.

Now, here’s the thing: with over 150 different species, viburnums are a seriously diverse bunch. You get everything from cute little groundcover types to proper small trees. That’s why knowing how tall a particular viburnum is likely to grow is super important. You don’t want to plant something that’s going to take over the entire yard, right? Choosing the right size is key to a happy garden.

Size Matters: From Petite to Pretty Darn Big

Viburnums really do come in all shapes and sizes. Some are happy staying just a couple of feet tall – perfect for tucking into a border. Others? Well, they can shoot up to 30 feet! It’s not just height, either. Some spread out into dense, bushy mounds, while others have a more relaxed, open vibe. And some, get this, even send out suckers and create whole colonies. Talk about making a statement!

Most viburnums are pretty eager growers, putting on a foot or two each year. But, of course, the smaller, more compact types tend to take their time. I remember planting an Arrowwood viburnum years ago, and it felt like it took forever to reach its full size. We’re talking seven or eight years!

What Makes a Viburnum Grow Tall (or Not)?

So, what’s the secret sauce that determines how tall your viburnum will eventually get? A few things play a role:

• The Genes: This is the big one. Just like people, different viburnum species and varieties are simply programmed to grow to different sizes. It’s in their DNA!
• Where They Live: Sunlight, soil, and water all make a difference. Most viburnums are sun-lovers, but some can handle a bit of shade. And while they generally like moist, well-drained soil, some are tougher than others and can cope with different conditions.
• The Weather Outside: Viburnums are generally pretty tough cookies, but they do have their limits. If you live in a place with crazy hot summers or freezing winters, that can definitely affect how they grow.
• Your Pruning Skills (or Lack Thereof!): A little pruning can go a long way. It helps you keep your viburnum the size and shape you want. Plus, it can encourage it to grow denser and produce even more flowers.

Viburnum Lineup: A Few Popular Faces

Okay, let’s get down to specifics. Here’s a quick rundown of some popular viburnum varieties and how tall they typically grow:

• American Cranberrybush Viburnum (Viburnum opulus): Expect these beauties to reach 6-12 feet.
• Arrowwood Viburnum (Viburnum dentatum): Usually hits around 10 feet. But watch out for cultivars like ‘Sparkler’ – they can reach up to 15 feet! The ‘Compactum’ variety stays smaller, topping out at about 6 feet.
• Black Haw Viburnum (Viburnum prunifolium): A low-maintenance choice that can get to 12-15 feet.
• Bodnant Viburnum (Viburnum x bodnantense): These can easily reach 10 feet or more.
• Burkwood Viburnum (Viburnum x burkwoodii): A good all-rounder, typically growing to 6-10 feet tall and wide.
• David Viburnum (Viburnum davidii): If you want something small and compact, this is it. Only 3-5 feet tall.
• Doublefile Viburnum (Viburnum plicatum f. tomentosum): These can get quite large, reaching 8-16 feet.
• Fragrant Snowball Viburnum (Viburnum x carlcephalum): Expect these to grow 6-10 feet tall and wide.
• Japanese Viburnum (Viburnum japonicum): Another good mid-sized option, growing 6-8 feet tall and wide.
• Leatherleaf Viburnum (Viburnum rhytidophyllum): These upright growers can reach 8-15 feet.
• Linden Viburnum (Viburnum dilatatum): Typically grows to 8-10 feet.
• Mapleleaf Viburnum (Viburnum acerifolium): A slow grower, reaching about 6 feet.
• Nannyberry Viburnum (Viburnum lentago): Can get quite tall, reaching 15-18 feet.
• Prague Viburnum (Viburnum x pragense): A fast-growing evergreen that can reach 10 feet or more.
• Sweet Viburnum (Viburnum odoratissimum): You can grow this as a shrub or a small tree, reaching up to 20 feet.
• Tea Viburnum (Viburnum setigerum): Grows 8-12 feet tall.
• Walter’s Viburnum (Viburnum obovatum): In its native coastal plains, this one can become a small tree, reaching 12-20 feet if you let it do its thing.

Finding the Perfect Viburnum for Your Garden

So, how do you pick the right viburnum for your space? Here’s my advice:

• Think about Space: Be realistic about how much room you have. Don’t cram a giant viburnum into a tiny corner.
• What Do You Need It To Do?: Are you looking for a ground cover? A hedge? A small tree to add some drama?
• Pick Your Style: Do you want something with showy flowers? Colorful berries? Beautiful foliage?
• Know Your Yard: Make sure the viburnum you choose is happy with your local climate, soil, and sunlight.

Choosing the right viburnum can really transform your garden. Take your time, do your research, and you’ll be rewarded with years of beauty and joy. Happy gardening!