Guelder Rose (viburnum opulus)

• Native UK deciduous shrub, ideal for wildlife gardens, hedgerows, woodland edges, or shrub borders.
• Ornamental appeal: Lacy white flowers in late spring/early summer, vibrant red autumn foliage, and clusters of bright red berries persisting into winter.
• Excellent for biodiversity: Flowers attract pollinators like bees and hoverflies; berries provide vital food for birds (e.g., bullfinches, mistle thrushes, waxwings); offers shelter and supports moth larvae.
• Hardy across UK, grows 4-5m tall and wide.

Planting and Care

• Site and soil: Prefers moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil; tolerates chalk, clay, loam, or sand; thrives in full sun to partial shade (more flowers in sun).
• Planting time: November to early April in the dormant season.
• How to plant: Dig a generous hole, incorporate compost if the soil is poor; plant at the same depth that it growing in the nursery, water well, and mulch with organic matter.
• Maintenance: Water regularly in first few years and during dry spells; minimal pruning needed.