Also known as Black Haw · Călin · Crampbark
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Guelder-rose (Viburnum opulus) is an ornamental shrub with showy white flowers and bright red berries, native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
50% intensity
Thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade.
Regular
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Well-drained, moist, fertile soil
50% intensity
Cold Hardy
25% intensity
Well-suited to temperate climates and can withstand freezing temperatures.
Moderate
50% intensity
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release formula.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains cyanogenic glycosides which can cause vomiting and diarrhea if ingested. The seeds are the most toxic part.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to maintain consistent soil moisture. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot. Deep watering is more beneficial than frequent, shallow applications.
In containers, ensure adequate drainage to prevent water accumulation.
Prune after flowering to maintain desired shape and size. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. For rejuvenation, consider cutting back older, overgrown shrubs to the ground in late winter or early spring.
This encourages vigorous new growth.
Easily propagated from softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer, or from semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer. Layering is also effective.
Seeds can be sown in autumn, but stratification may be required for germination.
Container-grown Guelder-rose typically needs repotting every 2-3 years in early spring before new growth begins. Choose a pot one size larger than the current one.
Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the root ball is well-moistened after repotting.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Guelder-Rose (Viburnum opulus)
Where Guelder-Rose (Viburnum opulus) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Viburnaceae |
| Genus | Viburnum |
| Species | Viburnum opulus |
Similar in genus Viburnum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
