Laurustinus
Viburnum tinusUSDA | Grow Zone
8-10Outdoors all year in zones 8 to 10. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 32°F.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Weekly, more in hot months
- Humidity
- 40-60%
- Temperature
- 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 4-8 ft tall, 4-6 ft wide
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets and children
Viburnum tinus, commonly known as Laurustinus, is a versatile evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region. It is cherished for its attractive foliage and fragrant flowers, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes.
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Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 32°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 4-8 ft tall, 4-6 ft wide
- Plant apart
- 48-72 in
- Frost
- Half hardy: light frost only
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Viburnum tinus prefers consistently moist soil, especially during the growing season.
Water deeply once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. In hotter months, increase frequency to twice a week. 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 direct sunlight daily.
It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers. For optimal growth, place it in a location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade in hotter climates.
Soil
Viburnum tinus prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
A mix of loamy soil, peat, and perlite is recommended to ensure proper drainage. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain moisture, as this can lead to root rot.
Humidity
This plant enjoys moderate humidity levels, ideally between 40-60%.
To increase humidity, mist the leaves regularly or place a humidity tray nearby. Signs of low humidity stress include browning leaf tips and leaf drop.
Temperature
Viburnum tinus thrives in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) and is hardy in zones 8-10.
It can tolerate brief periods of cold but should be protected from frost. In extremely hot weather, provide some shade to prevent heat stress.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 during the growing season, applying every 4-6 weeks.
In fall, switch to a low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote root growth. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves and poor growth.
Pruning
Prune Viburnum tinus in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage bushy growth.
Use sharp, clean pruning shears to remove dead or damaged branches, and thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation. Deadheading spent flowers can promote further blooming.
Repotting
Repot every 2-3 years or when the roots become pot-bound, typically in spring.
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. Carefully remove the plant, loosen the roots, and place it in fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Propagation can be done through semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer or early fall.
Cut a 4-6 inch section from a healthy stem, remove lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant in a well-draining potting mix and keep moist until roots develop, which usually takes 4-8 weeks.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Often caused by over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture and adjust watering schedule. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer if nutrient deficiency is suspected.
Root rot
Why it happens
Occurs due to poor drainage or over-watering.
How to fix it
Ensure proper drainage in pots, reduce watering frequency, and consider repotting into fresh, well-draining soil.
Leaf drop
Why it happens
Can be caused by sudden changes in temperature or humidity.
How to fix it
Maintain stable environmental conditions and avoid placing the plant near drafts or heating vents.
Pest infestation (aphids, spider mites)
Why it happens
Commonly attracted to stressed plants or those with low humidity.
How to fix it
Inspect regularly, and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Poor flowering
Why it happens
Insufficient light or improper pruning.
How to fix it
Ensure the plant receives adequate sunlight and prune appropriately to encourage blooming.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, focus on pruning to shape the plant and encourage new growth. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy foliage and blooms.
Summer
During summer, ensure consistent watering, especially in hot weather. Monitor for pests and provide shade if temperatures soar.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy. Apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer to support root development.
Winter
In winter, protect the plant from frost by covering it or moving it indoors if necessary. Reduce watering and avoid fertilizing during this dormant period.
Toxicity & Safety
Viburnum tinus is generally considered non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Always monitor pets and children around plants.
Good to know
Why are my Viburnum tinus leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves on Viburnum tinus can indicate over-watering or a nutrient deficiency. Check the soil moisture and adjust watering habits, and consider fertilizing if necessary.
How often should I water my Laurustinus?
Water your Laurustinus once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. In hotter months, you may need to increase watering to twice a week.
What type of soil is best for Viburnum tinus?
Viburnum tinus thrives in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of loamy soil, peat, and perlite is ideal for optimal growth.
When is the best time to prune Viburnum tinus?
The best time to prune Viburnum tinus is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This helps maintain its shape and encourages bushy growth.
How can I propagate Laurustinus?
You can propagate Laurustinus through semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer or early fall. Use rooting hormone and keep the cuttings moist until they develop roots.
What are the signs of root rot in Viburnum tinus?
Signs of root rot include yellowing leaves, wilting, and a foul smell from the soil. If you notice these symptoms, check the roots and adjust watering practices.
Is Viburnum tinus toxic to pets?
Viburnum tinus is generally considered non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
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