Also known as Alder-Leaf Viburnum · Alder-Leaved Viburnum · American Wayfaring Tree
Hobblebush (Viburnum lantanoides) is a deciduous shrub native to eastern North America, known for its showy white flower clusters and red to purple fall color.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade to Full Shade
50% intensity
Thrives in dappled shade or areas with morning sun and afternoon shade.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Prefers evenly moist soil, but not waterlogged.
Moist, well-drained
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Low to Moderate
25% intensity
Benefits from compost annually; moderate feeding with balanced fertilizer in spring.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Hobblebush thrives in consistently moist soil. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry, especially during hot, dry periods. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Regular watering encourages lusher growth and better flowering.
Prune Hobblebush immediately after flowering to shape the plant and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Minimal pruning is generally best to maintain its natural form.
Heavy pruning can reduce the following year's flower display.
Propagate by taking semi-hardwood cuttings in summer or hardwood cuttings in late autumn.
Layering is also effective; bend a low-hanging branch to the ground, wound it slightly, and bury the wounded section in moist soil. Rooting can take several months.
Repotting is rarely necessary for established garden specimens. If grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years in early spring using a well-draining potting mix.
Ensure the new pot is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering.
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 Hobblebush (Viburnum lantanoides)
Where Hobblebush (Viburnum lantanoides) 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 lantanoides |
Similar in genus Viburnum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
