Laurustinus 'Gwenllian' Viburnum tinus 'Gwenllian'

Water

Water the Laurustinus thoroughly when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, approximately once a week, but adjust depending on local weather conditions. During the spring and summer growing seasons, it may require watering more frequently. Ensure that the plant receives deep watering, which generally means applying around 1 to 2 gallons of water per event for a mature shrub, depending on the size and environmental conditions, allowing the moisture to reach the root zone. Reduce watering in the fall and further in the winter to prevent waterlogged conditions, as this plant prefers a well-drained soil.

Light

The Laurustinus thrives in full sun to partial shade. The best spot for the plant would be a location where it receives at least four to six hours of direct sunlight per day, complemented by partial shade during the hotter parts of the day to protect it from intense afternoon sun.

Temperature

The Laurustinus prefers moderate temperatures and can generally tolerate temperatures between 10°F and 80°F. Ideally, it performs best when the climate stays within the range of 50°F to 70°F. It's important to protect the plant from extreme cold, ensuring it's not exposed to temperatures below 10°F, which could be harmful.

Pruning

Prune Laurustinus to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth, typically after the plant has finished blooming in the spring. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and thin out the plant to allow light and air circulation. Pruning is not required annually but can be done every few years or as needed to control size.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Laurestine (Viburnum tinus 'Gwenllian') is well-draining, fertile, and humus-rich. A mix of loam, peat or compost, and coarse sand or perlite is ideal. The optimal pH range for Laurestine is slightly acidic to neutral, between 5.5 and 7.5. Adjusting the soil with organic matter can help maintain the pH and soil health.

Repotting

Laurestine (Viburnum tinus 'Gwenllian') typically doesn't require frequent repotting as it's often grown as an outdoor shrub. If grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth; early spring before new growth begins is the ideal time.

Humidity & Misting

Laurestine (Viburnum tinus 'Gwenllian') tolerates a range of humidity levels but prefers moderate conditions. Average indoor humidity is usually adequate; avoid extremely dry air by providing some humidity, especially during winter when indoor heating can reduce moisture levels.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Laurestine in bright, indirect light.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial sun, sheltered from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  7-11 USDA

Life cycle

Viburnum tinus 'Gwenllian', commonly called Laurustinus, begins its life cycle with seed germination, which can occur either in natural soil conditions or through controlled propagation by cuttings. The seedlings then enter a period of vegetative growth, developing a strong root system, stems, and foliage. As a perennial shrub, Laurustinus reaches maturity within a few years, at which point it begins its reproductive phase, producing clusters of small, pinkish-white flowers primarily in winter and spring. After pollination, these flowers develop into small, dark blue-black berries (drupes) by late summer or fall. Laurustinus can live for several decades, during which it will continue to grow, flower, and produce fruit annually. The plant eventually enters a senescence phase, where growth slows and it may become more susceptible to disease and environmental stress, leading to its decline and death.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagating Viburnum tinus 'Gwenllian', also known as laurustinus, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This process typically takes place in late summer. A cutting, which is a piece of stem 4 to 6 inches long with several leaves, is taken from a healthy parent plant. The lower leaves of the cutting are removed, and the cut end is often dipped in a rooting hormone to enhance the chances of successful rooting. The prepared cutting is then inserted into a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix and placed in a warm, humid environment with indirect sunlight. In several weeks, roots should develop, at which point the new plant can gradually acclimate to less controlled conditions before being planted out in the garden.