Species

Viburnum dilatatumViburnum

1 other cultivar

‘Michael Dodge Linden’Michael Dodge Linden Viburnum

shrub

Cardinal Candy Linden Viburnum

Viburnum dilatatum 'Linden'

The Story

Plant Bio

Viburnum dilatatum is a multi-stemmed deciduous shrub from East Asia, admired for its creamy-white flower clusters and attractive fruit. It has a dense, rounded habit and textured, dark green leaves.

Cardinal Candy ('Henneke') is a superior selection known for its exceptionally heavy set of large, glossy, candy-apple red berries that persist long into winter. It is also a reliable pollinator for other V. dilatatum cultivars.

Uses & Benefits:

Offers outstanding multi-season appeal with fragrant spring flowers, handsome foliage, and a profusion of brilliant red berries that last through winter.

Creates a dense, effective screen or informal hedge. The berried branches are spectacular in winter floral arrangements.

Provides nectar for pollinators and a crucial late-season food source for songbirds like cedar waxwings and robins.

SpeciesViburnum dilatatumViburnum

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

120 inches

Width

120 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Long-lived shrub

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Berries are mildly toxic if ingested in large quantities.

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site with at least 6 hours of sun for best flowering and fruiting.
Amend soil with compost to improve drainage and fertility.
Dig a hole twice the width of the container.
Set the plant with the top of the root ball level with the ground.
Backfill the hole, water deeply, and mulch to conserve moisture.
Provide regular water until the plant is well-established.

Pro Tip

Plant with 'Michael Dodge' for a stunning display of both red and yellow berries from cross-pollination.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Plant a different V. dilatatum cultivar nearby for cross-pollination.
Water deeply during extended dry spells.
Allow space for it to reach its mature size.

Don't

Don't plant in soggy, poorly drained locations.
Avoid shearing, which ruins its natural form and fruit display.
Don't let mulch touch the main stems.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Spectacular fruiting hedgeWildlife garden focal pointMixed shrub border anchor

Companion Plants

Itea virginica Clethra alnifolia Cornus sericea Miscanthus sinensis Viburnum dilatatum 'Michael Dodge'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Cardinal Candy Linden Viburnum questions

What zones can Cardinal Candy Linden Viburnum grow in?

Cardinal Candy Linden Viburnum is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Cardinal Candy Linden Viburnum deer resistant?

Yes — Cardinal Candy Linden Viburnum is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Cardinal Candy Linden Viburnum bloom?

Cardinal Candy Linden Viburnum typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Cardinal Candy Linden Viburnum need full sun?

Cardinal Candy Linden Viburnum does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.