Walter’s Viburnum

Viburnum obovatum Walter

vi-BURN-um ob-oh-VAY-tum

Caprifoliaceae

Explanation of name: Viburnum is the Latin name for a similar species. Obovate means shaped like an upside-down-egg.

Natural range: Throughout most of Florida and in adjacent states. http://plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=VIOB

Wetland forests, stream margins, swamps, infrequently on upland sites (HAE)

Recognition: The sizes and forms of this species are highly variable. It is usually a large shrub with small, opposite, fragrant (when crushed), elliptic to obovate leaves to about 1.5” long, much smaller than those on other South Florida viburnums. The small white flowers, borne mostly in spring, are numerous in flat-topped clusters.

Landscape uses (FPS604, PBCC, HAE). An attractive, twiggy, compact, fine-textured, small-leaved variably shaped and sized, suckering native shrub or small tree having showy white flowers late winter or spring followed by red, then black fruits. The flowers and fruits attract butterflies and birds respectively. Best on moist acid soils in sun or some shade

Internet source: http://www.magnoliagardensnursery.com/productdescrip/Viburnum_Walter.html