Fragrant Viburnum

Viburnum odoratissimum, commonly known as sweet viburnum, is a shrub or small tree in the family Viburnaceae. It is native to Asia, and commonly cultivated as a garden ornamental elsewhere.

 It grows to 9 metres high and has glossy elliptical leaves to 20 cm long. In spring it produces pyramid-shaped clusters of fragrant white flowers, followed by red berries that age to black.

Distribution and habitat: The species is native to China, Korea, Taiwan, Japan, the Himalayan region in India, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines.

Viburnum odoratissimum var. awabuki is native to Korea (Jeju Island), Taiwan, and Japan.

Cultivation: The species prefers warm, frost-free climates.