This is a shrub that I have only seen used as a hedge here in Sydney, although not frequently used from what I see on my travels. The name Viburnum comes from the Latin for the species Viburnum lantana, while the name tinus comes from the Latin name for this species itself. It a species that comes from the Mediterranean region.

Viburnum tinus is an evergreen bushy shrub with a compact habit, up to 3m wide and 3m tall. It’s leaves are ovate to oblong, dark green and grow up to 10cm long. Individual flowers are salverform, white and small to 6mm across, gathered in terminal cymes to 10 cm across. They flower for long periods over late winter and spring. Fruit follows, which is dark black and ovoid in shape to 6mm long.

In Australia, this viburnum is happy in any temperate to sub-tropical climate. It’s woody stems can tolerate temperatures down to -10 degrees Celcius.

Viburnum tinus prefers a moist, well drained soil with moderate fertility. It is happy in full sun to part shade. Mulch the soil yearly, water well and fertilise in spring. To encourage a bushy and compact habit, prune frequently.

To propagate this plant, you can sow seeds into a pot in autumn. Alternatively, you can take semi-hardwood cuttings in summer.

Pests and diseases that potentially bother this viburnum include aphids, viburnum beetle, whitefly, honey fungus and leaf spot. Do note that healthy plants are less prone to pests and diseases, so ensure that your plants are kept healthy. Try to encourage beneficial critters, like lady birds, into the garden as they help to keep the pests at bay.

All photos are my own