Origin and Common Names
Viburnum cassinoides L. var. angustifolium (Torr. & Gray) Shinners, commonly known as withe-rod or southern arrowwood, is a perennial shrub and a member of the Adoxaceae family. The plant is native to North America and grows typically in damp soils in the eastern and midwestern regions of the continent, from Newfoundland and Labrador, south to Alabama, Florida, and Texas.
Appearance
The shrub can grow up to 3 meters tall and 2.5 meters wide, with long and slender branches that are hairless, green in color, and often tinged with red. The leaves are simple, opposite, and narrowly oval-shaped, measuring between 5-10 centimeters long and 1.5-4 centimeters wide, with finely serrated edges and a glossy dark-green surface. The plant blooms in late spring or early summer with clusters of small white flowers measuring 5 millimeters in diameter, which develop into small reddish-black berries, measuring approximately 5-7 millimeters in diameter, in the fall.
Uses
Viburnum cassinoides L. var. angustifolium has been used for both medicinal and ornamental purposes. Some Native American tribes used the bark to treat gastrointestinal disorders, while others used the root bark to induce vomiting. Nowadays, some gardeners and landscapers use withe-rod as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and flowers. The plant is also known for its tolerance of wet soils, making it an excellent option for use in rain gardens and along the banks of streams and ponds. Additionally, wildlife such as birds, squirrels, and deer feed on the shrub's berries.
Light Requirements
Viburnum cassinoides L. var. angustifolium (Torr. & Gray) Shinners requires full to partial sunlight exposure to grow and thrive. It can tolerate partial shade, but excessive shade can lead to stunted growth and reduced flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers cool to moderate temperatures, and its natural distribution range is from Canada to the northeastern United States. It can tolerate cold winter temperatures, but hot summers may stress the plant if soil moisture is inadequate. Ideal temperature ranges for growth are from 13 to 27 °C (55-80 °F).
Soil requirements
Viburnum cassinoides L. var. angustifolium (Torr. & Gray) Shinners requires moist, well-drained soils that are slightly acidic to neutral. The plant can tolerate a range of soil textures, including sandy and loamy soils. It also prefers soils that are rich in organic matter and can handle occasional flooding.
Cultivation Methods
Viburnum cassinoides L. var. angustifolium (Torr. & Gray) Shinners, commonly referred to as Witherod Viburnum or Wild Raisin, is a shrub native to North America. It is adaptable to various soil types and can grow in both full sun or part shade. The shrub prefers acidic soil with a pH range of 4.5 to 7.5. It can grow up to 12 feet tall but can be kept smaller by pruning.
Watering Needs
Witherod Viburnum prefers evenly moist soil, so it is essential to water the plant regularly. During the growing season, the plant needs around 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation. However, avoid watering the plant too frequently, as this can lead to root rot. It is best to check the soil moisture regularly and water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Fertilization
Witherod Viburnum does not require much fertilization. However, applying a slow-release fertilizer in the early spring can help improve the plant's growth and flowering. It is best to use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Follow the recommended dosage on the fertilizer packaging, as over-fertilization can lead to excessive foliage growth with fewer flowers.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and size of Witherod Viburnum. The plant benefits from pruning immediately after flowering. This helps promote vigorous new growth for the following season's flowers. You can remove about one-third of the plant's oldest stems each year to encourage new growth. However, avoid pruning the plant too heavily, as this can lead to fewer flowers.
Propagation of Viburnum cassinoides L. var. angustifolium
Viburnum cassinoides L. var. angustifolium (Torr. & Gray) Shinners, commonly known as withe-rod, is a deciduous shrub that is mostly found in wetlands, bogs, and swamps. The plant can grow up to 8-10 feet tall and 6-10 feet wide. It produces green foliage in the spring and summer that turns purplish-red in the fall, making it an attractive landscaping option.
The plant can be propagated through several methods which include:
Seed Propagation
The most common and easiest method of propagating Viburnum cassinoides is through seeds. The seeds should be collected from ripe berries and stored in a cool and dry place. Stratification is required for breaking the seed dormancy. This can be achieved by cold stratification for 120-150 days at 33-41°F. Once the stratification period is completed, sow the seeds in the desired soil mixture and provide them with suitable growing conditions.
Cuttings Propagation
Viburnum cassinoides can also be propagated through softwood cuttings. Take cuttings in early summer when the stems are young and tender. Use a clean and sharp sterilized blade to avoid any infections. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cuttings into a rooting hormone. Plant the cutting into a well-draining soil mixture with proper watering and lighting
Layering Propagation
This propagation method involves bending a lower stem and burying it into the soil to encourage rooting. Allow the stem to remain buried and attached to the parent plant for a few months until the new roots are developed. Once the new plant is established, it can be transplanted into a new location and provide it with suitable growing conditions.
Overall, Viburnum cassinoides L. var. angustifolium is relatively easy to propagate through different methods. By selecting one of the described propagation methods and providing optimal growing conditions, you can successfully produce a new plant.
Disease Management
One of the common diseases that affects Viburnum cassinoides var. angustifolium is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery substance on the surface of the leaves. To manage this disease, remove any affected plant parts and ensure good air circulation among the plants. You can also apply fungicides that contain sulfur or neem oil to the plants.
Viburnum cassinoides var. angustifolium may also be affected by fungal leaf spots. These appear as circular or irregularly shaped spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, prune any affected plant parts and ensure the plants receive enough sunlight and proper air circulation. You can also apply fungicides containing copper or chlorothalonil to the plants.
Pest Management
One of the common pests that affect Viburnum cassinoides var. angustifolium is the viburnum leaf beetle. These beetles feed on the leaves and can cause significant damage to the plant. To manage this pest, remove any affected plant parts and handpick the beetles whenever possible. You can also apply insecticides containing pyrethrin or neem oil to control their population.
Another pest that may cause damage to Viburnum cassinoides var. angustifolium is the scale insect. These insects secrete a sticky substance onto the plant, which can attract other pests and lead to mold growth. To manage this pest, remove any affected plant parts and use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control their population.
