shrub RHS Award

Dwarf European Cranberrybush

Name: Dwarf European Cranberrybush
Brand: Viburnum
Availability: InStock

Viburnum opulus 'Nanum'

$29.50

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

30 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

20-30 years

Native To

Europe, Asia, North Africa

Toxicity

Berries (if produced) are mildly toxic if ingested raw

The Story

Plant Bio

Viburnum opulus, the European Cranberrybush, is a large deciduous shrub known for its maple-like leaves, showy spring flowers, and bright red autumn fruit. It is adaptable and hardy. 'Nanum' is a true dwarf selection grown for its dense, compact, globe-shaped form and attractive foliage, not for flowers or fruit, which it rarely produces. It requires virtually no pruning to maintain its neat shape.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Its primary value is its exceptionally dense, compact, and rounded form, which provides excellent structure and texture in the garden year-round. The dark green, maple-like leaves turn an attractive purplish-red in the fall.

This shrub is an outstanding choice for a low, formal or informal hedge that requires almost no pruning. It's also perfect for foundation plantings where a neat, contained plant is desired.

While it does not provide significant nectar or fruit for wildlife, its dense structure can offer shelter for small birds and other creatures.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Dancing Oaks

<1 Gal Pot

In Stock$29.50

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in full sun or light shade with good air circulation.
Plant in average, well-drained soil; it is highly adaptable.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball.
Set the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
Backfill the hole and water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Mulch around the base to keep roots cool and moist.

Pro Tip

This plant's best feature is its naturally dense, rounded shape; avoid shearing to allow its handsome form to develop on its own.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially in hot, dry weather.
Monitor for viburnum leaf beetle, its most significant pest.
Allow it to grow into its natural shape with minimal pruning.
Enjoy its attractive foliage and reddish-purple fall color.

Don't

Don't plant in areas with poor drainage.
Don't expect significant flowers or any fruit; it's a foliage plant.
Avoid shearing, which can ruin its natural globe-like habit.
Don't let it dry out completely, as this can cause stress.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Neat low formal hedgeTextural foundation plantingCompact border specimen

Companion Plants

Buxus 'Green Velvet' Hydrangea paniculata 'Bobo' Hosta 'Halcyon' Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' Juniperus procumbens 'Nana'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Dwarf European Cranberrybush questions

What zones can Dwarf European Cranberrybush grow in?

Dwarf European Cranberrybush is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Dwarf European Cranberrybush deer resistant?

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

When does Dwarf European Cranberrybush bloom?

Dwarf European Cranberrybush typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Dwarf European Cranberrybush need full sun?

Dwarf European Cranberrybush does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.