General Description
Viburnum nudum L., commonly known as the smooth witherod, is a deciduous shrub that is native to the eastern United States. It is a member of the Adoxaceae family and can grow up to 12 feet tall. The plant has a moderate growth rate, and its lifespan ranges from 40 to 60 years.
Appearance
The smooth witherod has an upright habit with stems that are thin and flexible. The leaves are simple, oval-shaped, and can grow up to 6 inches long. They are dark green and turn red in the fall. The flowers are small and white and bloom in early summer. They are followed by fruits that are berry-like, oval-shaped, and range in color from red to black. The plant has a dense, rounded crown and can form thickets when roots are not pruned.
Common Names
Aside from smooth witherod, Viburnum nudum L. has several other common names such as possumhaw viburnum, wild raisin, and swamp haw.
Uses
Viburnum nudum L. has various uses. It is popular as an ornamental plant in landscapes and gardens. It can serve as a hedge or screen due to its dense growth habit, and its fruits are attractive to wildlife. The plant also has medicinal properties. The bark, leaves, and fruits have been used to treat various ailments such as headaches, fever, and menstrual cramps. Additionally, the plant's wood is used for making tool handles and furniture.
Light Requirements
Viburnum nudum L. thrives in partial to full sunlight exposure. It is capable of growing densely in partially shaded areas, but it blooms less profusely and is less full than those grown in full sunlight. This plant requires at least six hours of sunlight daily to grow and flower properly.
Temperature Requirements
Viburnum nudum L. prefers slightly cooler temperatures and moderate to high humidity. It is capable of tolerating temperatures ranging from -10 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, making them suitable for planting in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9. However, this plant may experience some damage if exposed to extreme temperatures of up to -20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Requirements
Viburnum nudum L. requires well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. This plant thrives in soils that are moist but not waterlogged. It prefers soils that are rich in organic matter and can be grown in a range of soil types, including sandy loam, loam, or clay soils. However, it is important to note that clay soils should be amended with organic matter to improve drainage and aeration.
Cultivation Methods
Viburnum nudum L. prefers moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. It grows best in areas with full sun to partial shade and thrives in a range of temperatures. It is a low maintenance plant and has no major pest problems. It is often propagated from seed or cuttings.
Watering Needs
The Viburnum nudum L. plant prefers consistently moist soil and needs to be watered regularly to ensure that its soil stays moist. It needs frequent watering in dry spells, but care should be taken not to overwater it during the winter season. During the summer season, water the plant deeply once a week, and during the winter/fall season, water it at an interval of 2-4 weeks.
Fertilization
The Viburnum nudum L. plant does not require additional fertilization, but it can benefit from a layer of compost when planting. For those that require additional nutrients, an application of a balanced fertilizer twice per year will suffice one in the spring and another in early summer. Young plants usually require less fertilizer than mature ones.
Pruning
Young Viburnum nudum L. plants may require little to no pruning, but mature ones require occasional pruning to maintain their shape and promote healthy growth. Prune the viburnum in late winter or early spring to remove any damaged or diseased branches. Ensure to cut above a bud or growth point and cut back up to one-third of the plant. This will encourage lateral growth and improved flowering.
Propagation of Viburnum nudum L.
Viburnum nudum L., also known as the possumhaw, is a deciduous shrub that is commonly found in wetland areas. The shrub produces showy white flowers in the spring, followed by berries that turn from pink to blue-black in the fall. Propagation of Viburnum nudum can be done through various methods.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Viburnum nudum can be done through seed, although it is not commonly used. Seeds must be collected in the fall or winter after berries have ripened and been removed from the plant. The collected seeds should be planted immediately in a container of moist soil and kept in a cool and shaded area. Germination can take up to six months and is often irregular.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings are the most common method of propagating Viburnum nudum. Softwood cuttings should be taken from the tips of branches during the summer months when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be 6-8 inches long and include at least one node. Cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a container with a mixture of sand and peat moss. The container should be kept in a shaded area and the soil kept moist. Roots should form within 4-6 weeks.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is another option for propagating Viburnum nudum. The plant should be divided in the early spring, right before new growth begins. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the root ball into several sections while being careful to keep the root system intact. Transplant each section into its own container or directly into the ground and water thoroughly.
Disease Management for Viburnum nudum L.
Viburnum nudum L. is susceptible to foliar diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot, as well as root diseases like Phytophthora root rot. To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain good plant hygiene by removing and destroying any infected plant material. Additionally, avoiding overhead watering can prevent the spread of foliar diseases. Fungicides can also be used as a preventative measure or to control an existing infection.
Pest Management for Viburnum nudum L.
Common pests that can affect Viburnum nudum L. include aphids, scales, and spider mites. These pests can cause damage by feeding on the plant and secreting honeydew, which can attract secondary pests such as ants. To manage these pests, insecticidal soap or horticultural oils can be used as a non-toxic option. Additionally, introducing natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings can help control pest populations. Regular monitoring of the plant can help detect and control pest outbreaks before they cause significant damage.
