Laurustinus Viburnum tinus 'Purpureum'
ABOUT
Viburnum tinus 'Purpureum', commonly known as Laurustinus, is an ornamental plant celebrated for its aesthetic appeal throughout the year. Notably, it presents itself with a dense, rounded form draped in evergreen foliage. The leaves are distinguished by their striking, reddish-purple hue when young, which gradually transitions to a deep, glossy green as they mature. Adding to its decorative nature, Laurustinus unfurls abundant clusters of small, star-shaped flowers, primarily during the colder months. These blossoms are generally a creamy white or light pink, providing a startling contrast against the darker foliage. Following the flowering period, the plant gives rise to metallic blue to black berries, which are not only visually pleasing but also attract a variety of birds and wildlife. The visual progression from vibrant purple-tinted leaves to rich green, accompanied by delicately hued flowers and striking berries, makes Laurustinus 'Purpureum' a versatile and captivating addition to various landscapes and garden designs.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Adoxaceae
Synonyms
Laurustinus, Purple Leaf Laurustinus
Common names
Viburnum tinus 'Purpureum'.
ToxicityTo humans
Laurustinus is considered mildly toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains saponins and other compounds which, when ingested, can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In most cases, Laurustinus poisoning is not severe, but it's still advisable to keep the plant out of reach from small children who may be tempted to eat its berries or leaves.
To pets
Laurustinus is also considered mildly toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Similar to humans, ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal upset with symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Although serious illness is rare, pets that consume Laurustinus should be monitored, and if symptoms are severe or persistent, a veterinarian should be consulted.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
6-12 feet (1.8-3.6 meters)
Spread
6-12 feet (1.8-3.6 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7-10
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Offers attractive, deep green leaves with a purplish tinge and clusters of pinkish-white flowers that add visual interest to the landscape.
- Year-Round Interest: Produces berries that can be blue, black, or red after flowering, providing visual interest throughout multiple seasons.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers are a nectar source for pollinators, while the berries attract birds and other wildlife.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it is relatively drought-resistant, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Versatility: Can be used for a variety of landscape applications including hedges, screens, or as a specimen plant.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning and is generally resistant to pests and diseases, making it an ideal choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance plant.
- Hardiness: Tolerates a range of soil types and conditions, from coastal to inland climates, and can withstand frost.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The dense foliage of Viburnum tinus 'Purpureum', commonly known as Laurustinus, can be used to create a sound barrier in gardens located near noisy areas, absorbing and reducing sound pollution.
- Laurustinus branches can be soaked in water to create a natural rooting hormone for encouraging the growth of cuttings from other plant species.
- Due to its dense growth and evergreen nature, Laurustinus can be used as a screen to provide backyard privacy from neighbors or unsightly views.
- Its woody stems are tough and can be used in crafting small decorative items or as kindling for fires in outdoor fire pits or indoor fireplaces.
- The contrasting green and purple foliage of the Laurustinus can be used in floral arrangements to add a distinctive color palette and texture.
- Laurustinus can be planted in coastal areas as it is tolerant of salt spray and can help in stabilizing sand dunes and reducing erosion.
- The thick foliage of Laurustinus can create shaded microhabitats for wildlife, offering a cool retreat for small creatures during hot summer months.
- Leaves of the Laurustinus can be used to create a natural green dye for fabrics or yarns when processed correctly.
- Creative gardeners can train Laurustinus into topiary forms, making use of its dense growth to shape into various ornamental designs.
- Abundant Laurustinus blooms can be used as a mild natural insect repellent in outdoor areas, as some insects may avoid the strong scent of the flowers.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Laurustinus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Laurustinus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal: Viburnum tinus, commonly known as Laurustinus, often symbolizes renewal due to its ability to flower in the middle of winter, representing new beginnings or hope during challenging times.
- Protection: Historically, some have believed that Laurustinus had the power to ward off evil spirits, thus it is sometimes associated with protection.
- Eternal Life: The evergreen nature of Viburnum tinus 'Purpureum' allows it to stay vibrant throughout the year, which is why it can represent immortality or the eternal aspect of life.
- Boundaries and Privacy: With its dense growth habit, Laurustinus is often used in hedges, symbolizing the establishment of private spaces or personal boundaries.
- Inner Strength: Laurustinus is a hardy plant that can withstand various conditions, symbolizing inner resilience and the ability to overcome adversity.
WaterThe Laurustinus should be watered thoroughly, allowing the soil to become moderately dry between waterings. In general, it needs a deep watering every week, especially during dry spells. Depending on the size of the plant and the weather conditions, this might equate to about 1 to 2 gallons for smaller shrubs, and up to 4 gallons for larger ones. During the winter months, watering can be reduced as the plant's water requirements decrease. It's important to avoid overwatering the Laurustinus, as this can lead to root rot.
LightLaurustinus thrives best in full to partial sunlight. A location that receives at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight with some dappled shade in the afternoon is ideal. Avoid placing it in deep shade, as this will reduce its flowering potential and overall vigor.
TemperatureThe Laurustinus prefers temperate conditions and is fairly hardy. It can withstand temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but frost may damage the foliage. Ideally, maintain temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. They are typically hardy in USDA zones 7 through 10.
PruningPruning the Laurustinus is essential for maintaining its shape and encouraging new growth. It's best to prune immediately after the plant has finished blooming in late spring. Thin out old and overcrowded branches, cutting back to just above a set of leaves. Annual pruning will suffice, focusing on shaping the plant and removing any diseased or broken branches.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLaurestinus (Viburnum tinus 'Purpureum') thrives best in well-drained soil rich in organic matter with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. A mix of two parts loam, one part peat, and one part perlite or sand provides a good balance for moisture retention and drainage.
RepottingLaurestinus is typically repotted every 2 to 3 years. As it prefers to be slightly root-bound, don't rush to repot unless you see roots coming out of the drainage holes or growth has significantly slowed down.
Humidity & MistingLaurestinus prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to a range of conditions. It is not overly sensitive to dry air, making it suitable for most indoor environments without the need for special humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure pot has drainage.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade to full sun in well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
7-11 USDA
Life cycleViburnum tinus 'Purpureum', commonly known as Laurustinus, begins its life cycle with seed germination, typically in a moist, well-draining soil environment. Once the seeds sprout, the seedlings grow into juvenile plants with purplish foliage, gradually maturing into shrubs reaching up to 2-3m in height. During its mature stage, the plant flourishes with small, pinkish-white flowers in late winter to mid-spring, which, if pollinated, develop into blue-black berries. The shrub continues to flower and produce fruit annually, contributing to seed dispersal and new plant generation. Over many years, Laurustinus will reach its full size and possibly begin to decline with age. Even as it nears the end of its life cycle, the plant can be propagated through cuttings, allowing for new plants to continue the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method to propagate Viburnum tinus 'Purpureum', commonly known as Laurustinus, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This technique is typically performed during the late summer. Cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) long, taken from the current season's growth. It is crucial to include at least two or three sets of leaves on each cutting and to make a clean cut just below a leaf node. The lower leaves are then removed and the cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. The prepared cutting is then inserted into a pot filled with a moistened mixture of equal parts peat and perlite. The pot should be kept in a warm place with indirect light and covered with a plastic bag to maintain humidity until roots develop, after which the bag can be removed and the new plants can be gradually acclimatized to ambient conditions before transplanting.
