Viburnum × burkwoodii Conoy (Burkwood Viburnum)

Wonderfully fragrant, Viburnum × burkwoodii 'Conoy' (Burkwood Viburnum) is a compact, multi-stemmed, semi-evergreen shrub of spreading, habit with ovate, glossy, dark green leaves that turn maroon in fall, except where evergreen (USDA Zones 7 and 8). In mid-spring, red flower buds open to very fragrant creamy-white flowers, arranged in flat-topped clusters, up to 4 in. across (10 cm). Lasting up to 2 weeks, they give way to pendulous clusters of red berries which ripen in late summer and persist into the fall. Hidden by the foliage, the fruits are however not particularly showy. To have the best cross-pollination and fruit display, plant in groups rather than as specimens. Perfect for the shrub border, as a flowering hedge, or as a handsome specimen.

• Recipient of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society Gold Metal Plant.
• Grows up to 4-5 ft. tall (120-150 cm) and 7-8 ft. wide (210-240 cm).
• A full sun or part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in average, moderately fertile, humus-rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Tolerates a wide range of soil types. Adaptable to poor soils, compacted soils, soils of various pH, heat, drought, and pollution.
• Perfect as a specimen plant or in shrub borders, makes striking hedges and screens and lovely foundation plantings. A great shrub for the perennial border too! Plant your Viburnum near high-traffic areas to enjoy its wonderful fragrance.
• Attractive to butterflies, hummingbirds, and birds.
• Low maintenance, this plant has no serious insect or disease problems but watch for leaf spots and aphids.
• Prune as required immediately after flowering.
• Propagate by softwood cuttings in summer, semi-ripe cuttings from midsummer to fall or hardwood cuttings in winter.
• Fruit if eaten can cause a mild stomach upset.