European Cranberrybush Viburnum opulus 'Compactum'

Names

• Family

  Adoxaceae

• Synonyms

  European Cranberry Bush, Guelder Rose, Compact European Cranberrybush, Dwarf Guelder Rose

• Common names

  Viburnum opulus var. nanum.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Guelder Rose (Viburnum opulus 'Compactum') is considered mildly toxic if ingested. The primary concern with ingestion is the presence of compounds like viburnin and hydrocyanic acid in the plant's bark and leaves, and less so in the berries. Symptoms of poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. In severe cases, consuming large quantities can potentially lead to more serious symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, and in extremely rare cases, seizures. However, poisoning from Guelder Rose is relatively uncommon, as the unpleasant taste of the plant parts usually discourages ingestion in significant amounts.

• To pets

  Guelder Rose (Viburnum opulus 'Compactum') poses a similar risk to pets as it does to humans, with the potential to cause mild toxicity if ingested. The toxins involved can affect a pet's gastrointestinal system leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, if a pet consumes a large amount of the plant, especially the bark or leaves which contain higher concentrations of the toxic compounds, it may experience more severe symptoms such as lethargy, drooling, and in very severe cases, seizures or collapse. As pets often explore with their mouths, it is advisable to prevent them from chewing on this plant to avoid any negative health effects.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)

• Spread

  4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  3-8

• Native area

  Europe Asia

General Benefits

• Aesthetic Appeal: Adds visual interest to gardens with its dense, mounded form and attractive foliage.
• Seasonal Interest: Offers year-round interest with white spring flowers, red autumn berries, and vibrant fall foliage color.
• Wildlife Habitat: Provides food and shelter for birds and beneficial insects.
• Compact Size: Suitable for small gardens or spaces due to its smaller growth habit relative to other Viburnum varieties.
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning and is generally easy to care for once established.
• Tolerant of Various Conditions: Adapts to a wide range of soil types and can handle full sun to partial shade exposures.

Medical Properties

• Antispasmodic: Crampbark (the common name of Viburnum opulus 'Compactum') may help to relieve muscle spasms and cramps.
• Diuretic: It has been used traditionally to increase urine production and relieve fluid retention.
• Sedative: Some components of Crampbark may have a calming effect on the nervous system.
• Astringent: This plant is thought to have properties that can help to tighten and tone tissues.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Viburnum opulus 'Compactum', also known as Guelder Rose, can be used in making natural dyes for fabrics, with different parts of the plant providing various shades.
• The densely twiggy branches of Guelder Rose can be used to create intricate natural sculptures for garden art.
• The wood of the Guelder Rose is strong for its size and can be fashioned into small items like tool handles or carved ornaments.
• During winter, the snow-covered bare branches of Guelder Rose can add aesthetic value to a wintry garden landscape.
• The Guelder Rose can act as a natural screen or hedge in gardens, providing privacy without the use of artificial fencing.
• Guelder Rose berries, although not palatable for humans, can be used in making bird food mixtures to attract wildlife to the garden.
• The Guelder Rose's resilient characteristics make it suitable for stabilizing soil and controlling erosion on slopes or riverbanks.
• For photographers and artists, the Guelder Rose provides a picturesque element in capturing the essence of each season through its changing foliage and fruit.
• In educational settings, the Guelder Rose can be used as a learning tool for horticulture students studying plant growth and pruning techniques.
• Viburnum opulus 'Compactum' can be incorporated into a sensory garden, where its leaves and textured bark provide unique tactile experiences.

Feng Shui

The European cranberrybush is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The European cranberrybush is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Protection: In some cultures, the Viburnum opulus, commonly known as European cranberrybush, is believed to offer protection against negative forces and was often planted near homes for this purpose.
• Unity: The interconnectedness of the bush's branches and dense foliage are sometimes seen as a symbol of family unity and togetherness.
• Bounty: The plant's generous production of berries has been taken as a sign of abundance and to represent the idea of providing for one’s family.
• Good Health: The medicinal properties historically attributed to parts of the plant, especially the berries which have been used in traditional medicine, symbolize well-being and the maintenance of good health.
• Renewal: As a deciduous shrub that blooms in the spring, the European cranberrybush is often associated with new beginnings and the renewal of life.