Viburnum odoratissimum 'Coppertop Sweet'

Species

1 other cultivar

‘Chindo’Chindo Sweet Viburnum

shrub

Coppertop Sweet Viburnum

Viburnum odoratissimum 'Coppertop Sweet'

Same species

Species

1 other cultivar

‘Chindo’Chindo Sweet Viburnum

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

108 inches

Width

66 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9

Water

Low to medium

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Long-lived evergreen shrub

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested in large quantities

The Story

Plant Bio

Sweet viburnum is a large, fast-growing evergreen shrub prized for its glossy leaves and fragrant spring flowers. 'Coppertop' is distinguished by its stunning copper-bronze new growth that matures to a glossy dark green, providing multi-season interest.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The primary appeal is the striking copper-bronze new foliage that contrasts beautifully with the mature dark green leaves. This provides year-round color and texture, supplemented by fragrant white flowers in spring.

Its dense, upright growth habit makes it an exceptional choice for creating a fast-growing privacy screen or hedge. It is also tolerant of heat, humidity, and some drought once established.

The fragrant flowers attract bees and other pollinators, contributing to the health of the local ecosystem.

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with full sun to part shade and good drainage.
Dig a hole twice the width of the container.
Set the plant in the hole with the top of the root ball level with the soil.
Backfill the hole with soil, firming it gently.
Water deeply to settle the soil around the roots.
Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and reduce weeds.

Pro Tip

For the most vibrant copper-colored new growth, plant in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly until the plant is well-established.
Prune after flowering to maintain desired size and shape.
Fertilize in early spring to encourage vigorous growth.
Provide good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Don't

Do not plant in soggy, poorly drained soil.
Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, especially in the first year.
Don't shear into a formal hedge if you want to enjoy the flowers.
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
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful evergreen privacy hedgeStriking foundation plantingDurable coastal garden specimen

Companion Plants

Loropetalum chinense Agapanthus Gardenia jasminoides Camellia sasanqua Cleyera japonica

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Coppertop Sweet Viburnum questions

What zones can Coppertop Sweet Viburnum grow in?

Coppertop Sweet Viburnum is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Coppertop Sweet Viburnum deer resistant?

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

When does Coppertop Sweet Viburnum bloom?

Coppertop Sweet 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 Coppertop Sweet Viburnum need full sun?

Coppertop Sweet Viburnum does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Coppertop Sweet Viburnum drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Coppertop Sweet Viburnum handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.