Wayfaring Tree (viburnum lantana)

• Native UK deciduous shrub, ideal for wildlife gardens, hedgerows, and woodland edges.
• Provides year-round ornamental interest with creamy-white spring flowers, red-to-black berries, and autumn foliage turning red/copper.
• Highly beneficial for biodiversity: flowers attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hoverflies; berries feed birds; leaves support moth larvae.
• Hardy, drought-tolerant once established, and suitable for informal hedging or specimen planting.

Planting and Care

• Site: Full sun to partial shade; thrives on chalky/alkaline soils but tolerates most types except waterlogged.
• Soil: Moist but well-drained, moderately fertile, humus-rich loam preferred.
• Timing: Plant bare-root specimens from November to March (dormant season).
• Method: Dig a hole twice the root width; plant at same depth as nursery; water thoroughly and mulch to retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
• Spacing: 30-50cm apart for hedges; allow 3-5m spread for specimens (grows to 4-5m tall/wide).
• Care: Water regularly in first year; low maintenance thereafter; prune lightly after flowering if needed (avoid heavy cuts to preserve berries).
• Notes: Fully hardy across UK; mildly toxic berries if eaten by humans