Brandywine viburnum is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America. It is a member of the Caprifoliaceae family and its scientific name is Viburnum opulus var. americanum. The brandywine viburnum is a multi-stemmed shrub that can grow up to 15 feet tall and wide. It has large, dark green leaves that are glossy and oval-shaped. The brandywine viburnum blooms in late spring to early summer with white, flat-topped clusters of flowers. The fruit is red and berry-like, ripening in late summer to early fall. Wild birds love the fruit and help to spread the brandywine viburnum's seeds.
About soil condition, the Brandywine Viburnum prefers rich, moist, well-drained soil but it is adaptable to other conditions. It grows best in full sun but can tolerate some shade. This shrub is tolerant of black walnut toxicity.
Not too different with other members of the viburnum family, the brandywine viburnum thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-drained, moist soil, but can tolerate a wide range of conditions. This shrub is a great choice for foundation plantings, hedges, or as a specimen plant.
The temperature condition that is ideal for the growth of the brandywine viburnum is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This plant requires full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. The brandywine viburnum can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, but it prefers slightly acidic soil.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50-70%. The plant does not like to be too wet or too dry. If the plant is too wet, it will start to rot. If the plant is too dry, the leaves will start to turn brown and fall off.
For the fertilizer, usually the plant does not need much because it is a slow grower. For the root, it is best to use a spade or a trowel. This plant is very sensitive to root disturbance, so it is best to be careful when transplanting.
Pruning brandywine viburnum is essential to maintaining its shape and preventing it from becoming overgrown. It is best to prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. To prune, simply cut back any branches that are growing out of bounds or that are crossing over other branches.
Propagation of brandywine viburnum is typically done through softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken from new growth in the spring or summer. The cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and taken from healthy, disease-free stems. Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to make a clean cut just below a leaf node.Remove the bottom leaves from the cutting, leaving 2-3 leaves at the top. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining rooting medium. Place the cutting in a plastic bag or covered container to create a humid environment. Keep the rooting medium moist but not soggy and in indirect light until roots have developed and new growth appears. Once roots have developed and new growth appears, transplant to a pot or outdoor location.
Usually, the plant growth rate is considered slow to medium. However, when given the right growing conditions, this plant can reach its full potential. When planted in well-drained soil and given ample water, brandywine viburnum can grow up to 2 feet per year. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and does best in cooler climates.
Common problems for this kind of plant (viburnum x brandywine) are powdery mildew, leaf spot, and stem canker. These problems are usually caused by too much moisture and can be controlled by proper pruning, watering, and fungicide applications.
Source:
Brandywine Blue Gneiss | The Delaware Geological Survey
Versatile Vibrant Viburnums | NC State Extension
Common Insect Pests of Viburnum - University of Kentucky
