Japanese Snowball Viburnum plicatum f. tomentosum 'Lanarth'

Water

The Japanese Snowball (Viburnum plicatum f. tomentosum 'Lanarth') prefers consistently moist soil, so it should be watered deeply once a week, allowing the water to soak into the ground rather than just wetting the surface. On average, use about 1 to 2 gallons of water per week, depending on the size of the plant and the weather conditions. During dry spells or hot weather, you might need to water twice a week. Make sure not to oversaturate the soil, which can lead to root rot. It's important to water the plant at the base to keep the leaves dry and prevent fungal diseases.

Light

The Japanese Snowball thrives in areas that receive full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot will provide at least four to six hours of direct sunlight a day, with some protection from the intense afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates. A location that gets morning sun and afternoon shade is often optimal, ensuring that the plant has enough light without being exposed to potential leaf scorch.

Temperature

The Japanese Snowball is hardy and can endure temperatures as low as -10°F and as high as 95°F, but it performs best in temperate climates. Ideal growing temperatures range from 60°F to 75°F. This plant is winter-hardy to USDA zones 5 through 8; sudden and extreme temperature fluctuations should be avoided to prevent damage.

Pruning

Pruning the Japanese Snowball should be done for shaping, to remove dead or broken branches, and to encourage a strong plant structure. The best time for pruning is late winter or early spring, before the onset of new growth. This plant blooms on old wood, so minimal pruning is best to avoid cutting off flower buds. If a more extensive pruning is required, do it immediately after flowering to ensure blooms are not compromised for the following season.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Doublefile viburnum prefers moist, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 5.6 to 7.0. The best soil mix for this plant can be a blend of garden soil, compost, and peat moss or pine bark to ensure good drainage and fertility.

Repotting

Doublefile viburnums are typically outdoor plants and do not require frequent repotting. They should only be transplanted or repotted if they outgrow their current location, which is infrequent and depends on their growing conditions.

Humidity & Misting

Doublefile viburnum thrives in average outdoor humidity levels; it does not have specific humidity requirements. The plant is quite adaptable and can tolerate the humidity levels typically found in its hardiness zones.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright, indirect light and room to grow.

• Outdoor

  Choose partial sun, well-drained soil, and space to spread.

• Hardiness zone

  5-8 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of the Doublefile Viburnum, Viburnum plicatum f. tomentosum 'Lanarth', starts with germination, where after stratification, the seeds sprout when exposed to warm temperatures and sufficient moisture. Next, seedlings grow into juvenile plants, establishing a strong root system and beginning to develop characteristic leaves and branching patterns. As the plants reach maturity, they start to produce flowers, typically in spring, with distinctive horizontal branching that showcases the white blooms. Following pollination, usually by insects, these plants produce berry-like drupes which turn red to black when ripe, containing seeds for subsequent dispersal. The Doublefile Viburnum then enters a period of senescence as it ages, with older specimens showing reduced vigor and fewer flowers. Ultimately, the plant dies, completing its life cycle, and if seeds have been effectively dispersed and conditions are right, new plants will sprout, beginning the cycle anew.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagation for Viburnum plicatum f. tomentosum 'Lanarth', commonly known as Japanese snowball, is through softwood cuttings. This technique is usually performed during late spring or early summer when the plant’s new growth is just beginning to mature and the stems are still soft and flexible. To propagate, a gardener would cut a 4 to 6-inch (10 to 15 cm) length of stem that includes at least two sets of leaves. The bottom set of leaves should be removed, and the cut end of the stem may be dipped in rooting hormone to improve the chances of successful root development. The prepared cutting is then placed in a pot with well-drained potting mix, ensuring that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. With appropriate care, the cutting should root within a few weeks, at which point it can eventually be transplanted into the garden.