Viburnum dilatatum 'Michael Dodge Linden'

shrub

Michael Dodge Linden Viburnum

Viburnum dilatatum 'Michael Dodge Linden'

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.

The Story

Plant Bio

Viburnum dilatatum, or Linden Viburnum, is a dense, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub native to East Asia, known for its flat-topped clusters of creamy-white flowers and showy fruit. 'Michael Dodge' is a standout cultivar prized for its abundant clusters of bright yellow fruit, which persist well into winter, contrasting beautifully with its reddish-purple fall foliage.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Valued for its outstanding three-season interest: fragrant spring flowers, lush summer foliage, and stunning yellow berries with purple-red fall color that persist into winter.

Forms an excellent informal hedge or privacy screen, providing structure and definition in the landscape. The berried branches are attractive in floral arrangements.

The berries are a valuable food source for birds and other wildlife during late fall and winter, while the flowers provide nectar for pollinators.

Planting

How to Grow

Select a location with full sun to part shade and moist, well-drained soil.
Dig a hole two times wider than the root ball.
Place the shrub in the hole, ensuring the crown is at soil level.
Backfill with amended soil and water thoroughly to settle.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base, avoiding the stem.
Water regularly during the first year to establish a strong root system.

Pro Tip

Plant another Viburnum dilatatum cultivar nearby for cross-pollination to ensure a heavy and reliable fruit set.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially in dry periods.
Plant in groups with another V. dilatatum for best fruit production.
Prune immediately after flowering to avoid removing next year's buds.

Don't

Don't plant in poorly drained, waterlogged soil.
Don't forget to check for viburnum leaf beetle, especially in infested areas.
Avoid heavy pruning late in the season.

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

Striking winter interest shrubMixed border specimen for unique fruit displayWildlife-friendly informal hedge

Companion Plants

Hydrangea paniculata Ilex verticillata Fothergilla gardenii Panicum virgatum Aronia arbutifolia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Michael Dodge Linden Viburnum questions

What zones can Michael Dodge Linden Viburnum grow in?

Michael Dodge 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 Michael Dodge Linden Viburnum deer resistant?

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

When does Michael Dodge Linden Viburnum bloom?

Michael Dodge 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 Michael Dodge Linden Viburnum need full sun?

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