Korean Spice Viburnum
Viburnum carlesii · Arrowwood · Koreanspice ViburnumUSDA | Grow Zone
5-8Outdoors all year in zones 5 to 8. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Consistently moist soil
- Humidity
- 40-60%
- Temperature
- 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 4-6 ft tall and wide
Korean Spice Viburnum is a delightful deciduous shrub known for its fragrant flowers and attractive foliage. Native to Korea, it adds beauty and charm to any garden, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts.
Ask Vesper about Korean Spice Viburnum
Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 4-6 ft tall and wide
- Plant apart
- 48-72 in
- Frost
- Hardy: survives frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Korean Spice Viburnum prefers consistently moist soil, especially during its active growing season in spring and summer.
Water deeply once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. In the fall and winter, reduce watering to every 10-14 days. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause wilting and leaf drop.
Light
This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, ideally receiving 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.
A location with morning sun and afternoon shade is optimal, especially in hotter climates. It can tolerate light shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Soil
Korean Spice Viburnum prefers well-draining, loamy soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0.
A mix of peat moss, compost, and perlite can provide the ideal potting mix. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Humidity
This plant enjoys moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%.
To increase humidity, mist the leaves regularly or place a humidity tray filled with water and pebbles beneath the pot. Signs of low humidity include browning leaf tips and leaf drop.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Korean Spice Viburnum is 60-75°F (15-24°C).
It is hardy in USDA zones 5-8, tolerating cold temperatures down to -20°F (-29°C). Protect it from extreme heat and cold drafts during seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 in early spring.
Apply every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves and poor growth, indicating the need for additional fertilization.
Pruning
Prune Korean Spice Viburnum after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Use sharp, clean pruning shears to remove dead or crossing branches. Deadheading spent flowers can also promote more blooms.
Repotting
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes and stunted growth. To repot, gently remove the plant from its current pot, loosen the roots, and place it in fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Korean Spice Viburnum can be propagated through softwood cuttings, division, or seeds.
For cuttings, take 4-6 inch sections in late spring, remove lower leaves, and place in a moist potting mix. Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid environment until roots develop, usually within 4-6 weeks. Division is best done in early spring or fall when the plant is dormant.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture levels and adjust watering schedule. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer if nutrient deficiency is suspected.
Root rot
Why it happens
Poor drainage or over-watering.
How to fix it
Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes and reduce watering frequency. If root rot is present, remove the affected roots and repot in fresh soil.
Wilting leaves
Why it happens
Under-watering or extreme heat.
How to fix it
Increase watering frequency and ensure the plant is not exposed to direct afternoon sun during hot weather.
Pests (aphids, spider mites)
Why it happens
High humidity and poor air circulation.
How to fix it
Inspect the plant regularly and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Leaf drop
Why it happens
Sudden changes in temperature or humidity.
How to fix it
Maintain consistent environmental conditions and avoid placing the plant near drafts or heat sources.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, ensure the plant is well-watered as it begins to grow. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and blooms.
Summer
During summer, monitor soil moisture closely and water regularly. Prune any spent flowers to encourage more blooms and maintain shape.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy. Remove any dead leaves and prepare for winter by mulching around the base.
Winter
In winter, protect the plant from extreme cold and frost. If grown in a pot, consider moving it indoors or to a sheltered location.
Toxicity & Safety
Korean Spice Viburnum is non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. The berries are not recommended for consumption.
Good to know
Why are my Korean Spice Viburnum leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves can indicate over-watering or a nutrient deficiency. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
How often should I water my Korean Spice Viburnum?
Water your Korean Spice Viburnum deeply once a week during the growing season, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
When is the best time to prune Korean Spice Viburnum?
The best time to prune Korean Spice Viburnum is immediately after flowering, which allows for new growth and more blooms in the following season.
Can I grow Korean Spice Viburnum in a pot?
Yes, Korean Spice Viburnum can be grown in pots. Ensure the pot has good drainage and use a well-draining potting mix to promote healthy growth.
What type of fertilizer should I use for Korean Spice Viburnum?
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10, applying it in early spring and every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
How do I propagate Korean Spice Viburnum?
You can propagate Korean Spice Viburnum through softwood cuttings taken in late spring or by division in early spring or fall when the plant is dormant.
What companion plants grow well with Korean Spice Viburnum?
Companion plants that thrive alongside Korean Spice Viburnum include Hydrangea macrophylla, Cornus sericea, and Spiraea japonica.
Track this plant in your garden.
Set care reminders, log growth, and join a community of plant lovers.