shrubN. America Native

Smooth Witherod

Name: Smooth Witherod
Brand: Viburnum
Availability: InStock

Viburnum nudum

$89.95

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

144 inches

Width

144 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium to high

Humidity

Tolerates high humidity

Lifespan

Long-lived shrub

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Fruits are edible for wildlife but not recommended for human consumption.

The Story

Plant Bio

Viburnum nudum is a multi-stemmed, deciduous shrub native to the eastern U.S., typically found in moist to wet areas. It features glossy green leaves and creamy-white flower clusters. The most distinctive feature is its multi-colored fruit display in fall, where clusters hold berries of pink, red, and deep blue simultaneously. The glossy leaves turn an attractive reddish-purple in autumn.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Celebrated for its unique, multi-colored fruit clusters that transition from pink to blue, set against glossy leaves that turn a brilliant wine-red in fall.

An excellent choice for wet areas of the landscape, such as rain gardens, pond edges, or low-lying spots where other shrubs might fail.

As a native shrub, it provides nectar for native bees and butterflies, and its berries are a valuable food source for birds and other wildlife.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Garden Goods Direct

In Stock$89.95

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with moist, acidic, well-drained soil in sun or shade.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Set the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
Backfill with native soil, firming gently.
Water deeply and apply a layer of organic mulch.
Ensure consistent moisture, especially during establishment and dry periods.

Pro Tip

Plant at least two different cultivars or seedlings for cross-pollination, which is essential for a spectacular fruit display.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide ample moisture; this plant loves consistently damp soil.
Plant in groups with other V. nudum for best fruiting.
Test soil pH and amend if necessary to maintain acidity.

Don't

Don't let the soil dry out completely.
Don't plant in high pH, alkaline soils.
Avoid planting a single specimen if you want berries.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful rain garden specimenNaturalistic woodland edge plantingMoisture-loving shrub border

Companion Plants

Ilex verticillata Clethra alnifolia Osmunda cinnamomea Lobelia cardinalis Cephalanthus occidentalis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Smooth Witherod questions

What zones can Smooth Witherod grow in?

Smooth Witherod is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Smooth Witherod deer resistant?

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

When does Smooth Witherod bloom?

Smooth Witherod 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 Smooth Witherod need full sun?

Smooth Witherod does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.