Guelder Rose Viburnum opulus 'Notcutt's Variety'

Water

The European Cranberrybush or Guelder Rose, Viburnum opulus 'Notcutt's Variety,' prefers consistently moist soil, but it is important not to overwater. During the growing season, water this shrub deeply once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water each time, depending on the weather conditions. During periods of drought or extreme heat, you may need to water twice a week. In the dormant season, reduce watering frequency, checking the soil moisture level before adding water to prevent soggy soil, which can lead to root rot. The goal is to maintain a balance where the soil is moist but not waterlogged.

Light

The European Cranberrybush thrives best in full sun to partial shade. It's important to place this plant in a spot where it will receive at least four to six hours of direct sunlight a day, which encourages flowering and fruiting. However, it can also tolerate some shade, especially in hotter climates, where it may benefit from some protection during the peak afternoon sun.

Temperature

European Cranberrybush is a hardy plant that can withstand a wide range of temperatures. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about -30 degrees Fahrenheit and is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8. The ideal growing temperatures are between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the growing season. Extreme heat can be stressful for the plant, so it's important to ensure adequate watering during hot spells.

Pruning

The European Cranberrybush should be pruned to maintain its shape and health. This is best done in late winter or early spring before the onset of new growth. Prune out any dead, diseased, or crossed branches to promote better air circulation and sunlight penetration. Additionally, occasional thinning of older stems can encourage more vigorous growth and flowering. Typically, annual pruning is sufficient unless the shrub requires rejuvenation or shaping for aesthetic purposes.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The European Cranberrybush (Viburnum opulus 'Notcutt's Variety') thrives best in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.6 to 7. A suitable soil mix for this plant might include loamy garden soil, compost, and peat moss to enhance fertility and drainage.

Repotting

European Cranberrybush typically does not require frequent repotting as it is a large shrub; however, if grown in a container, it should be repotted every 3 to 5 years or when it outgrows its current pot to ensure adequate root space and soil fertility.

Humidity & Misting

European Cranberrybush prefers average outdoor humidity levels; it is quite adaptable and does not require specific humidity adjustments when planted in the garden.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, cool temperature, and space for growth.

• Outdoor

  Plant in sun to partial shade with moist, well-drained soil.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of the Viburnum opulus 'Notcutt's Variety', commonly known as Guelder Rose or European cranberrybush, begins with germination, which occurs when its seeds are sown in well-draining soil and exposed to conditions that prompt growth, typically in early to mid-spring. Following germination, the seedling stage is marked by the emergence of its first leaves and roots, as it slowly establishes a foothold. Entering the juvenile phase, the plant experiences rapid growth of stems and foliage, and starts developing the characteristic lobed leaves but does not yet produce flowers. As it matures into the adult stage, the Guelder Rose begins to flower annually, typically in late spring to early summer, displaying white, sometimes pink-tinged blossoms in large, showy clusters. Following pollination, the flowers transform into bright red, berry-like drupes, attracting birds and other wildlife, which aid in seed dispersal. The plant then enters a period of dormancy during winter, where growth slows down or temporarily halts until the next spring, repeating the annual cycle of growth and reproduction.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagating the European cranberrybush, which is the common name for Viburnum opulus 'Notcutt's Variety', is by softwood cuttings. This method typically takes place in late spring to early summer when new growth is green and flexible. To propagate, one makes a cutting 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long from the end of a branch, making sure at least two sets of leaves are present. The lower leaves are removed and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining potting mix, covered with plastic to maintain humidity, and kept in indirect light until roots form, which usually takes a few weeks. Regular misting helps prevent the leaves from drying out before the roots have developed. Once rooted, the cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots to grow on or planted directly in their final location in the garden.