Species
Viburnum nudumSmooth Witherod1 other cultivar
The Story
Plant Bio
Viburnum nudum, commonly known as possumhaw or smooth witherod, is a multi-stemmed deciduous shrub native to the eastern and southeastern U.S. It is prized for its glossy leaves, creamy-white flowers, and colorful fruit display.
Brandywine ('Bulk') is a standout cultivar selected for its spectacular multi-season display. It features exceptionally glossy foliage that turns a stunning wine-red in fall, alongside clusters of berries that transform from green to vivid pink and finally to deep blue, creating a breathtaking autumn show.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
72 inches
Width
72 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Medium to wet
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Long-lived shrub
Native To
Eastern North America
Toxicity
Mildly toxic if ingested in large quantities
Bloom period
Late spring – Early summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a location with full sun to part shade and moist, acidic soil.
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
- Place the shrub in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
- Backfill with soil, gently tamping to remove air pockets.
- Water deeply after planting and continue regularly for the first year.
- Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
For reliable and abundant fruit, plant another V. nudum cultivar like 'Winterthur' nearby for cross-pollination.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide consistent moisture, especially in full sun locations.
- Plant a suitable pollinator partner for best fruit set.
- Prune right after flowering to maintain shape and size.
- Test soil pH and amend if necessary to maintain acidity.
- Enjoy the multi-season interest from flowers to fruit to fall color.
Don't
- Don't let the soil dry out completely.
- Avoid planting in alkaline (high pH) soils, which can cause chlorosis.
- Don't prune in late summer or fall, as this will remove flower buds.
- Avoid heavy fertilization, which can reduce flowering.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Brandywine Viburnum questions
What zones can Brandywine Viburnum grow in?
Brandywine Viburnum 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 Brandywine Viburnum deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Brandywine Viburnum, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Brandywine Viburnum bloom?
Brandywine 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 Brandywine Viburnum need full sun?
Brandywine Viburnum does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Viburnum to compare
Nannyberry
Viburnum lentago
Snowball Viburnum
Viburnum opulus 'Sterile'
Korean spice viburnum
Viburnum carlesii
Autumn Jazz Arrowwood
Viburnum dentatum 'Autumn Jazz'
Mariesii Japanese Snowball
Viburnum plicatum 'Mariesii'
Blue Muffin Viburnum
Viburnum dentatum 'Christom'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Brandywine Viburnum with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.