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Korean Spice Viburnum

Viburnum carlesii

  • Intoxicating Spring Fragrance Transforms Pink Buds into Heavenly White Blooms
  • Thrives in Zones 5-9
  • Showy Pink, White Blooms in Late Spring
  • Perfect for Hedge or Foundation Planting
  • Pollinator-Friendly - Attracts Songbirds
Regular price $3064
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Plant Size

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

  • Sunlight: For the best fragrance and heaviest bloom set, plant in full sun (6+ hours). While it handles partial shade well, you may notice a slightly looser growth habit and less intense burgundy fall color.
  • Soil: These shrubs love rich, slightly acidic, well-drained soil. If you have heavy clay, plant it in a raised mound to keep the "feet" out of standing water, or mix in organic compost to improve drainage.

Watering Requirements

During the first year, water deeply twice a week to help the root system reach deep into the soil. Once established, this Viburnum is quite drought-tolerant, but inconsistent moisture during a dry summer can lead to smaller flower buds for the following spring. Aim for a deep soak at the base of the plant whenever the top two inches of soil feel dry to the touch.

Pruning Tips

Korean Spice Viburnum blooms on "old wood," meaning next year's flowers are developed shortly after this year's blooms fade. To avoid cutting off your future flower show, prune only in late spring immediately after the flowers wither. Focus on thinning out the oldest stems every few years to encourage fresh, vigorous growth from the base.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring just as new growth begins to emerge. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer, as this encourages tender new growth that won't have time to "harden off" before the first frost. A layer of wood mulch around the base will also provide a steady supply of nutrients as it breaks down.

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50 $9.99
$50 - $99.99 $14.99
$100 - $149.99 $16.99
$150 - $198.99 $24.99
$199+ FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Specifications

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics Cold hardy, Low Maintenance, Flowering, Fragrant, Fall Color/Interest, Ornamental Berries/Fruit, Attracts pollinators, Hedge/Screen, Drought resistant
Hardiness Zone 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b
Sunlight Full sun
Height 4-6 ft
Width 4-5 ft
Watering Needs Moderate
Preferred Soil Clay, Loamy, Sandy
Growth Rate Moderate
Growth Habit Bushy
Blooms In Spring
Flower Color Pink, White
Foliage Color Green
Fragrant Yes
Suitable Space Outdoors
Botanical Name Viburnum carlesii
Species carlesii
Class Magnoliopsida
Does Not Ship To AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

Frequently Asked Questions

What planting zones is Korean Spice Viburnum hardy in?

  • Korean Spice Viburnum is hardy in USDA zones 4-7, making it suitable for most temperate climates. This deciduous shrub tolerates cold winters well while producing its signature fragrant spring blooms. Plant in well-draining soil with morning sun for best flowering performance.

What is the size at maturity for Korean Spice Viburnum (height and width)?

  • Korean Spice Viburnum reaches 4-6 feet tall and wide at maturity, forming a compact, rounded shape. This deciduous shrub's manageable size makes it perfect for foundation plantings, mixed borders, or as a specimen plant. Shop at Nature Hills for healthy, nursery-grown plants.

Does Korean Spice Viburnum grow well in full sun, part sun, or shade?

  • Korean Spice Viburnum thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. It produces the most abundant blooms and strongest fragrance when planted in a location receiving at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Plant in morning sun with some afternoon shade protection in hot climates.

How do I prune Korean Spice Viburnum, and when is the best time?

  • Prune Korean Spice Viburnum immediately after flowering in late spring to avoid removing next year's buds. Light pruning works best since this shrub has naturally attractive open-branching structure. Focus on removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches rather than heavy shaping.

Is Korean Spice Viburnum deer-resistant or do deer eat it?

  • Korean Spice Viburnum is generally deer-resistant due to its aromatic foliage and flowers. While no plant is completely deer-proof, the spicy fragrance that makes this shrub so appealing to gardeners typically deters browsing deer. For best results in high-deer areas, plant near windows or walkways where human activity is frequent.

What soil type does Korean Spice Viburnum prefer (moist, well-drained, pH)?

  • Korean Spice Viburnum thrives in moist, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0-7.0. It adapts to various soil types but performs best when drainage is good and moisture is consistent. Amend heavy clay soils with compost to improve drainage.

What are the shipping restrictions—which states can't it ship to (e.g., CA, AZ, AK, HI)?

  • Korean Spice Viburnum ships to most states, but restrictions apply to California, Arizona, Alaska, and Hawaii due to agricultural regulations. Some additional states may have seasonal restrictions. Check your zip code at checkout to confirm availability for your location.

How do I winterize or protect it in colder zones from wind?

  • Korean Spice Viburnum's upright, open-branching structure naturally withstands winter conditions in most zones. In extremely windy areas, apply a 3-4 inch mulch layer around the base and consider temporary burlap screening on the windward side during harsh winter months.

Does it produce fragrant flowers, and when does it bloom?

  • Korean Spice Viburnum produces exceptionally fragrant spring flowers with a unique spicy-sweet scent. Pink buds open to white 3-inch flower clusters that bloom alongside spring bulbs. The intoxicating fragrance attracts hummingbirds and butterflies early in the season.