Wayfaring-tree
Viburnum lantana
Also listed as Viburnum maculatum, Viburnum aragonense
Also known as Wayfarer, Mealytree, Twistwood
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A deciduous shrub prized for its flat white flower clusters in late spring, followed by attractive red berries that turn black as they mature. Its foliage provides excellent fall color, making it a four-season ornamental for woodland gardens and naturalized settings.
Why grow it
Viburnum lantana distinguishes itself among native and adapted viburnums through reliable berry production and notably vigorous growth, making it useful for wildlife corridors and informal hedgerows where establishment speed matters. Its tolerance of alkaline soils sets it apart from many ornamental shrubs, and the progression from red to black fruit extends visual interest across seasons. Compared to smaller viburnum species, it reaches 15 feet or taller, suiting background plantings or screens in larger permaculture systems.
Watch out for
This species tends toward leggy growth in partial shade and benefits from occasional rejuvenation pruning to maintain density. Dense branching can trap moisture and debris, so pruning for air circulation helps prevent fungal issues in humid climates. Establishment typically requires consistent moisture during the first growing season, though mature plants show good drought tolerance once rooted.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Viburnaceae
Native Range
Europe and western Asia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A deciduous shrub prized for its flat white flower clusters in late spring, followed by attractive red berries that turn black as they mature. Its foliage provides excellent fall color, making it a four-season ornamental for woodland gardens and naturalized settings.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Wayfaring-tree grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Viburnum lantana distinguishes itself among native and adapted viburnums through reliable berry production and notably vigorous growth, making it useful for wildlife corridors and informal hedgerows where establishment speed matters. Its tolerance of alkaline soils sets it apart from many ornamental shrubs, and the progression from red to black fruit extends visual interest across seasons. Compared to smaller viburnum species, it reaches 15 feet or taller, suiting background plantings or screens in larger permaculture systems.
Watch out for
This species tends toward leggy growth in partial shade and benefits from occasional rejuvenation pruning to maintain density. Dense branching can trap moisture and debris, so pruning for air circulation helps prevent fungal issues in humid climates. Establishment typically requires consistent moisture during the first growing season, though mature plants show good drought tolerance once rooted.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Viburnaceae
Native Range
Europe and western Asia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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