1 named cultivar

‘Conoy’Conoy Viburnum

shrub RHS Award

Burkwood Viburnum

The Story

Plant Bio

Viburnum x burkwoodii is a hybrid deciduous or semi-evergreen shrub with a dense, rounded, multi-stemmed habit. It is renowned for its rounded clusters of pink buds that open to intensely fragrant white flowers in spring.

The primary appeal of this viburnum is the powerful, spicy-sweet fragrance of its flowers, which can perfume an entire garden. Its glossy, dark green leaves may develop a muted reddish-purple fall color and can persist into early winter in mild climates.

Uses & Benefits:

Grown primarily for its exceptionally fragrant spring flowers, which are a highlight of the season. The glossy, semi-evergreen foliage and attractive habit provide structure and interest throughout the year.

Its dense growth makes it suitable for use as an informal screen or hedge. Cut branches are excellent for bringing indoors in spring to fill a room with their delightful perfume.

The flowers are a valuable nectar source for early-season pollinators, including bees and butterflies. The red-to-black berries that follow provide food for birds in late summer and fall.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

108 inches

Width

84 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Medium, 20-40 years

Native To

Garden origin (V. carlesii x V. utile)

Toxicity

Berries are mildly toxic if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

Select a location in full sun or part shade with good air circulation.
It prefers moist, well-drained soil but is adaptable.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Set the plant in the hole, making sure the root flare is at soil level.
Backfill with soil, firm gently, and water deeply.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch to conserve moisture.

Pro Tip

Plant it where you can enjoy its incredible fragrance, such as near a doorway, walkway, or outdoor seating area.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods.
Prune right after flowering to shape the plant and maintain size.
Plant in a location protected from harsh winter winds in colder zones.
Plant another V. x burkwoodii or V. carlesii nearby for better fruit set.

Don't

Do not prune late in the season, as you will remove next year's flower buds.
Avoid planting in poorly drained, waterlogged soils.
Don't plant in deep shade, which will reduce flowering.
Avoid overhead watering to help prevent fungal diseases.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Intensely fragrant specimen near a patio or windowKey plant in a sensory or cottage gardenInformal hedge or screen

Companion Plants

Syringa vulgaris Paeonia lactiflora Helleborus orientalis Narcissus species Brunnera macrophylla

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Burkwood Viburnum questions

What zones can Burkwood Viburnum grow in?

Burkwood 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 Burkwood Viburnum deer resistant?

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

When does Burkwood Viburnum bloom?

Burkwood Viburnum typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Burkwood Viburnum need full sun?

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