What Is a Prague Viburnum?

By Alice Nichols

A Prague Viburnum is a versatile and attractive shrub that adds beauty and interest to any garden or landscape. This popular plant is known for its stunning display of flowers, vibrant foliage, and decorative berries. In this article, we will explore what exactly a Prague Viburnum is and how to care for it.

What is a Prague Viburnum?

The Prague Viburnum, scientifically known as Viburnum × pragense, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Adoxaceae family. It is a hybrid plant that was created by crossing two different species of viburnums – Viburnum rhytidophyllum and Viburnum utile. The result is a vigorous and hardy shrub with exceptional ornamental qualities.

One of the standout features of the Prague Viburnum are its large, glossy, dark green leaves. These leaves are deeply veined and have a slightly wrinkled appearance, giving the plant an interesting texture. The foliage remains attractive throughout the growing season, making it an excellent choice for creating privacy hedges or as an accent plant in borders or foundation plantings.

Key Features:

  • Foliage: Large, dark green leaves with prominent veins
  • Flowers: Clusters of fragrant white flowers in late spring
  • Berries: Reddish-black berries in late summer/fall
  • Growth Habit: Upright and rounded
  • Size: Can reach heights of 8-12 feet with a similar spread
  • Hardiness: Zones 5-8

Caring for Prague Viburnum

To ensure the health and vitality of your Prague Viburnum, it is important to provide the proper care and maintenance. Here are some essential tips:

1. Location and Soil

The Prague Viburnum thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Before planting, prepare the soil by incorporating compost or aged manure to improve its fertility and drainage.

2. Watering

During the establishment period, it is crucial to keep the soil evenly moist. Once established, the Prague Viburnum is relatively drought-tolerant, but regular watering during dry spells is still recommended.

3. Pruning

The best time for pruning a Prague Viburnum is immediately after flowering. This allows new growth to develop and flower buds to form for the following year. Pruning should be done selectively to maintain a pleasing shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.

4. Fertilizing

In early spring, before new growth begins, apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer around the base of the plant. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.

Final Thoughts

A Prague Viburnum is an excellent addition to any garden or landscape due to its beautiful foliage, fragrant flowers, and decorative berries. With proper care and maintenance, this shrub can thrive for many years, providing year-round interest and enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a versatile shrub that combines beauty and functionality, consider adding a Prague Viburnum to your garden. Its attractive foliage, fragrant flowers, and decorative berries make it a standout choice for any landscape. With the proper care and maintenance outlined in this article, you can enjoy the many benefits of this exceptional plant for years to come.