Plants that Work®

Sugar N' Spice™ Korean Spice Viburnum

Name: Sugar N' Spice™ Korean Spice Viburnum
Brand: Plants That Work
SKU: 21389
Price: 100.23 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.73 (22 reviews)

Viburnum carlesii 'Select S'

Reblooming Sugar and Spice Viburnum Delivers Intoxicating Clove Fragrance Twice Per Season
Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 4-8
Grows 4-8 ft Tall, 4-6 ft Wide
Showy White Blooms in Late Spring
Top Pick for Hedge or Foundation Planting

$100²³

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In Stock

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Plant Size

#3 Container | 1-2 ft

Product variants

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Cold hardy, Low Maintenance, Flowering, Fragrant, Fall Color/Interest, Ornamental Berries/Fruit, Attracts pollinators, Hedge/Screen, Drought resistant, Heat Tolerant, Non-invasive
Hardiness Zone	4a to 7b
Sunlight	Full sun, Partial shade
Height	4-8 ft
Width	4-6 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Clay, Loamy, Sandy
Growth Rate	Slow
Growth Habit	Bushy
Blooms In	Spring
Flower Color	White
Foliage Color	Green, Red, Purple
Fragrant	Yes
Suitable Space	Outdoors
Botanical Name	Viburnum carlesii 'Select S'
Species	carlesii
Cultivar	Select S
Class	Magnoliopsida
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

Fragrant Sugar N' Spice™ Korean Spice Viburnum!

Sugar N' Spice™ Korean Spice Viburnum (Viburnum carlesii 'Select S') is a delightfully fragrant flowering shrub that brings a burst of spicy-sweet perfume to your spring garden! This reblooming cultivar is a modern twist on the beloved Korean Spice Viburnum, known for its intoxicating clove-scented blooms.

Clusters of pink buds open to white, dome-shaped flower heads. After pollination, red berries mature to black, attracting birds while adding a seasonal accent. It flowers early to mid-spring and then surprises gardeners with a second flush of blooms in late summer—a rare trait among Viburnums. Sugar N' Spice™ is a Proven Winners® ColorChoice® selection, chosen for its compact habit, prolific blooms, and reliability.

The form is naturally rounded, topping out around 4 to 8 feet tall and 4 to 6 feet wide, making it ideal for smaller landscapes or tight garden spaces. Its dark green, ovate leaves emerge in spring and turn rich burgundy-red in fall.

Native to Korea, Viburnum carlesii has long been admired for its hardiness and spicy fragrance. Sugar N' Spice™ thrives in USDA Zones 4–8 and handles a wide range of climates, from humid Southeastern summers to chilly Northern winters.

Key Features

Powerfully fragrant pink-to-white spring flowers
Reblooming—flowers again in late summer
Compact, rounded form (4–5 feet tall and wide)
Burgundy-red fall foliage
Bird-friendly berries
Deer-resistant and low-maintenance
Hardy in USDA Zones 4–8

Landscaping Uses

Its fragrance has deep cultural symbolism, often associated with renewal and the start of spring. This compact variety brings old-fashioned charm in a modern, easy-care package!

This dwarf deciduous shrub stays around 4-8 feet and has a round, mounded form, perfect for layering in garden beds or small hedges.

Use in foundation plantings for spring fragrance
Add to cottage gardens, meditation gardens, or sensory gardens
Plant near patios, paths, or entryways for scent appreciation
Excellent fragrant additions to mixed shrub borders, hedges, or privacy screens
Works in large containers for patios or balconies
Combine with early spring bulbs for a layered bloom

Care and Maintenance

Sugar N' Spice™ is a woody deciduous shrub that's both cold hardy and deer resistant, thriving in full sun to part shade. It’s easy to grow and rewards with fragrance, foliage, and form.

Planting Time: Best planted in spring or fall
Sun Needs: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Needs: Prefers well-drained soil; tolerates clay with added compost
Moisture Needs: Medium moisture; drought-tolerant once established
Mulch: Apply 3–4 inches of arborist mulch or bark chips annually to conserve moisture
Fertilization Needs: Light feeding in spring with balanced fertilizer or compost
Pruning Info: Prune right after spring bloom; flowers on old wood
Renewal Pruning: Every 3–5 years, remove the oldest stems from the base
Special Needs/Perks:

Deer-resistant and rabbit-tolerant
Low maintenance
Urban and pollution-tolerant

Pollination Needs: Self-fertile, but more berries form with another Viburnum carlesii nearby

A Spicy-Sweet Spring Favorite

You'll fall head over heels for the clove-scented blooms of Proven Winners® ColorChoice® Sugar N' Spice™ Viburnum—an aromatic masterpiece in a compact package. Whether you're looking for a nostalgic nod to heirloom gardens or a fragrant showstopper near your front door, this plant delivers.

Buy now and Nature Hills Nursery will ship it at the proper planting time for your growing zone.

Other varieties

Korean Spice Viburnum
Viburnum carlesii

(22)

Regular price From $30⁶⁴
Chicago Lustre Arrowwood Viburnum
Viburnum dentatum 'Synnestvedt'

(2)

Regular price $81⁹²
Dwarf Fragrant Viburnum
Viburnum farreri 'Nanum'

(2)

Regular price $83²⁵
Winterthur Viburnum
Viburnum nudum 'Winterthur'

(1)

Regular price From $54²⁷
Alleghany Viburnum
Viburnum x rhytidophylloides 'Alleghany'

Regular price $81⁴²
Brandywine™ Viburnum
Viburnum nudum 'Bulk'

(13)

Regular price $26⁴⁹
Spice Island™ Korean Spice Viburnum
Viburnum carlesii 'Select A'

(22)

Regular price $100²³
Cayuga Viburnum
Viburnum x carlcephalum 'Cayuga'

(1)

Regular price $80²⁵

This product has no reviews of its own. The merchant grouped it with related products, so the reviews shown are from across that group.

Big Healthy Plant

My #3 Korean Spice Viburnum was securely packed and arrived in great shape. It was almost three foot tall and had beautifully scented blooms. It did very well during the transplanting process. Very happy with my purchase.

Hi there!

We are so excited for you and your purchase of the Korean Spice Viburnum! It's wonderful to hear that it arrived securely and in great shape. We take great care in packing our plants to ensure they arrive healthy and happy.

Thank you for sharing your experience with us. As a growing tip, we recommend planting your Viburnum in well-drained soil and providing it with regular water and fertilizer for optimal growth.

Happy gardening!

Very healthy

Very healthy, happy plant. So far so good.!

Korean Spice Viburnum is one of those plants that rewards you well once it settles in, and it sounds like yours is off to a great start, Marsha. Give it a season to establish its roots and you will likely see that fragrance kick in come spring. Thanks for sharing the early update!

Came quickly and packaged well

Came quickly and packaged well. The viburnums look healthy and as pictured. Would recommend company.

Healthy plants right out of the box is exactly what we aim for, so it's great to hear the viburnums arrived in good shape. Korean Spice is such a rewarding shrub once it gets settled in. Give it a season to establish its roots and you'll be rewarded with that incredible fragrance come spring. Thanks for the recommendation, Mary.

Arrived healthy in a sturdy box

Arrived healthy in a sturdy box. Growing well, looks great.

Korean Spice Viburnum is such a rewarding shrub to get established, and it sounds like yours is off to a strong start. Once it really settles in, that fragrance in spring is something else. Thanks for letting us know it arrived in good shape, Thomas.

Early

Early, but all good. Cannot wait until next year.

Korean Spice Viburnum has a way of building anticipation like that. Once it settles in and blooms, the fragrance alone makes it worth the wait. Thanks for sharing the early update, James.

Thank you!

The Viburnum arrived in perfect condition. For the price, I was expecting a bare root plant, but this one arrived beautifully potted and packed, and full of life. I am so impressed, and I'll be back!

A well-rooted, potted plant ready to go is always a better start than bare root, and Korean Spice Viburnum rewards that early vigor with some genuinely spectacular spring fragrance down the road. Glad the packaging held up through shipping. We look forward to seeing you again, Ian.

Never received.

I would like to get this plant, or a refund, but I was charged, and per UPS it never was received for shipping. I have tried in vain to get a customer service person, but the emails are responded to with "it's spring, were busy" form letter, and phone calls go unanswered and drop. Worst customer service ever.

This plant arrived well packed and in excellent shape

This plant arrived well packed and in excellent shape. Thank you!

Korean Spice Viburnum is a great choice, and it's good to hear it made the trip in solid condition. These shrubs tend to settle in quickly when they arrive healthy, so you're off to a good start. Thanks for the note, Valerie. The Nature Hills team

Not deer resistant

Regardless of saying deer tend to leave it alone...I disagree..Last spring I had beautiful flowers all over..I go out and check on my spring things coming up...guess what..Deer tromped in my big flower bed..and broke off every branch...I only have 1 tiny cluster of flower buds gonna open..Very upset...by the deer doing this...so don't go exactly by the statement deer tend to leave it alone.

Dear Mabel,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with us. We truly appreciate your honest feedback and are sorry to hear that the deer have caused such frustration in your beautiful flower bed. While certain plants generally tend to be less appealing to deer, those graceful creatures can be unpredictable, especially when food sources are scarce or during peak growing seasons.

To help protect your plants, you might consider some deterrents such as physical barriers like fencing, or applying non-toxic deer repellents that emit scents deer tend to avoid. We've also found that planting strongly scented herbs or incorporating a mix of deer-resistant varieties around tender plants can sometimes divert their attention.

If you'd like, our team would be happy to recommend some alternatives or additional protective measures tailored to your garden’s environment to help keep pleasing blooms coming. Please feel free to reach out anytime!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

huge and healthy

The plant has arrived huge and healthy. It is planted. Thank you, Nature HIlls!

Dear EA,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that your plant arrived huge and healthy and that it’s already settling into its new home beautifully. Healthy starts make all the difference, and it’s great to know we hit the mark for you.

If you ever have questions about caring for your new plant, whether it’s watering, pruning, or ensuring optimal growth through the seasons, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to support your garden flourishing every step of the way!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Beautiful plant

I ordered a Korean spice viburnum. It was well packaged and beautifully shaped and about two feet of plant. Would order again.

Dear Elizabeth,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful experience with your Korean spice viburnum! We’re thrilled to hear that it arrived well-packaged and beautifully shaped, and that you’re happy with the size of the plant. Knowing that you’re satisfied means a lot to us, and we’d be delighted to help you find another fantastic addition for your garden whenever you’re ready to order again.

If you ever have any questions about caring for your viburnum or need tips on planting and maintenance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We also offer helpful guides and resources on our website that might enrich your gardening experience.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Beautiful plant

I ordered a Korean spice viburnum. It was well packaged and beautifully shaped and about two feet of plant. Would order again.

Dear Elizabeth,

Thank you so much for your lovely review! We’re thrilled to hear that your Korean spice viburnum arrived healthy, beautifully shaped, and well-packaged. Knowing that you’re pleased with both the quality and size means a lot to us. When you decide to add more plants to your garden, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’d be happy to recommend varieties that complement your viburnum perfectly or help answer any gardening questions you have.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Green Thumbs Up on this purchase!👍�

Great packaging. Thorough instructions. Beautiful, healthy plant. Thank you.

Hi,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful feedback! We’re thrilled to hear that you’re happy with the packaging, instructions, and most of all, your beautiful, healthy plant. It’s our goal to make every plant arrival a joy, and knowing we hit the mark for you truly means a lot.

If you ever have any questions about caring for your new addition or need tips for keeping it thriving, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always here to help and support you on your gardening journey.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

Green Thumbs Up on this purchase!👍�

Great packaging. Thorough instructions. Beautiful, healthy plant. Thank you.

Hi,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful feedback! We're delighted to hear that the packaging met your expectations and that the instructions helped you get started with your beautiful, healthy new plant. It means a lot to us knowing that you’re enjoying your purchase.

If you ever have any questions or need tips to help your plant thrive, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always here and happy to help you nurture your green space.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Large, healthy plant!

This is my second order from Nature Hills but it won’t be the last!! Both orders were great. Well packaged, arrived in perfect condition. Large, well leafed out healthy plants. I have to say they actually exceeded my expectations.

Hi,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're absolutely delighted to hear that your second order from Nature Hills not only met but exceeded your expectations. It means a lot to us that our plants arrived healthy, large, and well-packaged — we take great care to ensure every plant reaches you in perfect condition. Your continued trust brightens our day and motivates us to keep delivering the best quality for your garden.

If you ever need tips on care or ideas for your next planting adventure, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always here to support your growing enthusiasm and help your garden thrive.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

So far so good

So far so good

Hi,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with us. We're delighted to hear that things are going well so far! If you have any questions or need advice as your plants grow, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always here to support you. Also, feel free to explore our planting guides and care tips on our website to make your gardening journey even smoother.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Large, healthy plant!

Hi,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with NatureHills.com! We’re delighted to hear that your second order exceeded your expectations with large, healthy, and well-packaged plants arriving in perfect condition. It’s always our goal to provide plants that inspire and thrive in your garden, and your kind words truly motivate us to keep delivering the best.

If you ever have questions about caring for your plants or want recommendations for your next addition, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’d love to continue supporting your gardening journey and help you create a beautiful, flourishing environment.

Growing with you,
Nature Hills Nursery – Your Trusted Plant Specialists

Korean spice viburnum

Already in bloom!!! Love it

Hi,

Thank you so much for sharing your excitement about your Korean spice viburnum already being in bloom! We’re delighted to hear it’s bringing such vibrant beauty to your space.

If you ever want tips on caring for your viburnum, such as pruning advice or how to encourage the best fragrance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help make sure your plant continues to thrive and bring joy throughout the seasons.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

So far so good

So far so good

Hello Guest,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your feedback! We're delighted to hear that everything is going well so far with your purchase. If you have any questions or need guidance as your plants grow, please don't hesitate to reach out—we’re always here to help you cultivate a thriving garden.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Korean spice viburnum

Already in bloom!!! Love it

Dear Bonnie,

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that your Korean Spice Viburnum is already blooming and bringing joy to your garden. These lovely shrubs truly make a vibrant and fragrant addition outdoor spaces. If you ever need tips on pruning or seasonal care to keep it thriving year after year, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always happy to help.

Enjoy your blossoming beauty!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water Sugar N' Spice™ Korean Spice Viburnum after planting?

Water deeply 2-3 times per week for the first growing season to establish roots. This hardy shrub (Zones 4-8) becomes quite drought tolerant once established. Reduce watering frequency after the first year, checking soil moisture 2 inches down before watering.

Is Sugar N' Spice™ Korean Spice Viburnum evergreen or deciduous?

Sugar N' Spice™ Korean Spice Viburnum is deciduous, shedding its leaves each winter. The dark green foliage turns rich burgundy-red in fall before dropping. This creates seasonal interest and allows you to enjoy the shrub's attractive branching structure through winter months.

What size pot is recommended for growing Sugar N' Spice™ Korean Spice Viburnum in a container?

A minimum 20-gallon container is recommended for Sugar N' Spice™ Korean Spice Viburnum, given its mature size of 4-8 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide. The large root system needs adequate space to support the shrub's reblooming habit and overall health. Choose a container with drainage holes and plan to move it to a sheltered location in winter if you're in zones 4-5.

How far apart should I space Sugar N' Spice™ Korean Spice Viburnum plants when planting multiple?

Space Sugar N' Spice™ Korean Spice Viburnum plants 4-6 feet apart on center. This matches their mature spread of 4-6 feet wide and prevents overcrowding as they develop their naturally rounded form. For hedging, you can plant slightly closer at 3-4 feet apart for faster fill-in.

Is Sugar N' Spice™ Korean Spice Viburnum resistant to diseases and pests?

Sugar N' Spice™ Korean Spice Viburnum is naturally deer-resistant and low-maintenance with good disease tolerance. This hardy shrub thrives in zones 4-8 without major pest issues. Plant in well-draining soil with morning sun for best results, available at naturehills.com.

Under $50	$9.99
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Sugar N' Spice™ Korean Spice Viburnum

Viburnum carlesii 'Select S'