Koreanspice Viburnum Viburnum carlesii 'Aurora'
ABOUT
The plant known commonly as Korean spice viburnum 'Aurora' has a visually striking presence. It features a dense, rounded form with lush green leaves that have a somewhat ovate shape with pointed ends and serrated edges. The foliage exhibits a beautiful texture that adds visual interest to any garden setting. What really sets this plant apart is the profusion of fragrant flowers that bloom in early to mid-spring. The blossoms are arranged in snowball-like clusters, known as cymes, and are initially a deep pink color. As they mature, the flowers soften into a blush pink or white, creating a two-toned effect that is quite captivating. These blooms not only add a burst of color to the plant but also emit a rich, spicy-sweet fragrance that can fill the surrounding air, attracting pollinators and delighting garden visitors. In the fall, the foliage of the Korean spice viburnum 'Aurora' may take on a red to burgundy hue, adding another layer of seasonal interest. After the flowers have finished their display, the plant produces small, red to black berry-like fruits that can attract birds and wildlife to the garden. Overall, its multi-seasonal interest and distinct aromatic qualities make it a desirable choice for a variety of garden designs.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Adoxaceae.
Synonyms
Koreanspice Viburnum, Korean Spice, Arrowwood, Aurora Koreanspice.
Common names
Viburnum carlesii 'Aurora'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Korean Spice Viburnum is not known to be toxic to humans. However, it should be noted that ingesting any plant material may cause discomfort or an allergic reaction in some individuals. There are no common symptoms of poisoning associated with this plant since it is not considered poisonous.
To pets
The Korean Spice Viburnum is not considered toxic to pets. As with any non-food plant material, ingestion of large amounts may cause mild stomach upset in some animals, but the plant is not known to cause serious poisoning or toxic reactions. There are no specific symptoms of poisoning associated with this plant in pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
Spread
4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Korea
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Viburnum carlesii 'Aurora', commonly known as Koreanspice viburnum, has attractive, dense, and layered foliage that provides visual interest in the landscape.
- Fragrant Flowers: The plant produces highly fragrant flowers in the spring, which are often described as having a spicy-sweet perfume, adding a sensory experience to gardens.
- Seasonal Interest: Koreanspice viburnum offers year-round interest with spring blossoms, summer foliage, bright fall colors, and sometimes berries and textured bark in winter.
- Attracts Wildlife: The flowers are known to attract pollinators like butterflies and bees, while the berries, if produced, can attract birds.
- Low Maintenance: This plant is relatively low maintenance once established, requiring minimal pruning and being drought tolerant to some extent.
- Versatility in Landscaping: It can be used in a variety of landscaping designs, including as a specimen plant, in mixed borders, hedges, or as part of a foundation planting.
- Tolerance of Various Conditions: Koreanspice viburnum can tolerate a range of soil types and different light conditions, making it adaptable to many garden settings.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Viburnum carlesii 'Aurora', commonly known as Koreanspice Viburnum, can be used in perfumery as its flowers have a strong and sweet fragrance reminiscent of vanilla and spices.
- It's an excellent addition to moon gardens, where its light-colored blooms are particularly visible and fragrant during evening hours, enhancing the night-time garden experience.
- The dense foliage of Koreanspice Viburnum can provide privacy screening in residential landscaping, becoming a natural and decorative barrier.
- The plant's branches and blossoms are commonly used in floral arrangements to add volume and a pleasant scent, both in professional floristry and DIY bouquets.
- Koreanspice Viburnum is suitable for creating shelter for wildlife; its structure offers nesting opportunities for birds and its fruits provide a food source.
- During autumn, the leaves turn vivid shades of red and burgundy, making it an excellent choice for seasonal photography and garden color themes.
- The wood of Koreanspice Viburnum can be used in small-scale woodcraft projects, such as carving or for making handles, once it's properly dried and treated.
- In educational settings, Koreanspice Viburnum can serve as an example plant to teach about pollination, as it attracts various pollinators including butterflies and bees.
- The plant's dense branching habit makes it suitable for use as a natural play structure or secret hideaway for children when sufficiently mature.
- It can be used in sensory gardens, where the tactile and fragrant characteristics of the plant can be stimulating and therapeutic, especially for people with sensory processing disorders.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Korean Spice Viburnum is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Korean Spice Viburnum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal: The Viburnum carlesii 'Aurora', commonly known as Koreanspice viburnum, blooms in spring, symbolizing the idea of renewal and new beginnings.
- Sweetness and Romance: With its sweet and strong fragrance, the Koreanspice viburnum is often associated with sweetness in life and romantic relationships.
- Protection: Some cultures believe that viburnums can ward off negative influences, hence it carries the symbolism of offering protection.
- Perseverance: Capable of thriving in various conditions, the Koreanspice viburnum is a symbol of perseverance and the ability to overcome challenges.
WaterKorean Spice Viburnum should be watered thoroughly once a week, providing about 1 inch of water each time. During hot or dry periods, increase the frequency to twice per week, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. In the winter months, water less frequently, but do not allow the soil to become completely dry. Newly planted shrubs may require additional water to encourage root development; this can mean an additional 1 to 2 gallons per week depending on the size of the plant and weather conditions.
LightKorean Spice Viburnum thrives in conditions where it can receive full sun to partial shade. The ideal location is one where the plant is exposed to at least four to six hours of direct sunlight daily, accompanied by dappled or partial shade during the hottest part of the afternoon to protect it from intense sun exposure.
TemperatureKorean Spice Viburnum prefers temperate climates and can withstand a temperature range from 20°F to 75°F. However, the ideal temperature for optimal growth and blooming is between 60°F and 70°F. It is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8, indicating it can survive winter temperatures as low as -30°F once established.
PruningPrune Korean Spice Viburnum after the flowers have faded in late spring to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or damaged branches and trim up to one-third of the oldest stems to promote rejuvenation. The best time for pruning is immediately after the plant finishes blooming, typically in late spring or early summer.
CleaningAs needed
SoilKorean Spice Viburnum prefers well-draining soil with a high organic matter content. The best soil mix is one that combines two parts garden soil, one part peat moss or compost, and one part perlite or sand to ensure adequate drainage. The optimal soil pH for Korean Spice Viburnum should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 5.6 to 7.2.
RepottingKorean Spice Viburnum does not need frequent repotting as it's typically grown outdoors. When grown in containers, repotting may be required every 3-4 years or when the plant outgrows its current pot.
Humidity & MistingKorean Spice Viburnum thrives in average outdoor humidity levels. It is adaptable and does not have specific humidity requirements, but it benefits from the moist conditions in its natural outdoor environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and keep at 60°F minimum.
Outdoor
Plant in moist, well-drained soil in partial shade.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Korean spice viburnum ('Aurora' cultivar) begins its life as a seed, which after a period of dormancy, germinates in favorable conditions of warmth and moisture. Upon germination, the seedling emerges and, with proper soil, light, and water, develops a root system and foliage. As the plant matures, it forms a woody structure and produces distinctive fragrant pinkish-white spring blossoms that attract pollinators. After flowering, it enters the fruiting stage, developing red to blackish berries that are eaten by birds, aiding in seed dispersal. Throughout its life, the Korean spice viburnum experiences annual growth cycles, with foliage turning a vibrant red to purple in the fall before losing its leaves in winter. This deciduous shrub may live for many years, continuing its cycle of growth, flowering, and dormancy.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Korean Spice Viburnum, Viburnum carlesii 'Aurora', is through semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer. To successfully propagate, select a healthy stem that is not too woody or too green and cut a 4-6 inch (10-15 cm) piece. The cutting should have at least two sets of leaves. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem to prevent rotting when planted and dip the cut end into rooting hormone to encourage root development. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix, ensuring that the leafless portion is buried. Keep the soil consistently moist and place the cutting in an area with indirect sunlight where it can maintain a temperature of about 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit (18-24 degrees Celsius). Roots will usually develop within a few weeks, after which the new plants can eventually be transplanted outdoors.
