Guelder rose, Viburnum opulus, is a beautiful native shrub, with attractive flowers, foliage and autumn berries. It’s a good choice for shady borders or woodland-style planting schemes. It’s a favourite with wildlife too – birds eat the berries, moths and other insects lay eggs on the leaves and pollinators feast on the large, lacey white flowers that appear from late spring to early summer. It’s often grown as part of a native wildlife hedge.
How to grow guelder rose
Plant guelder rose in moist but well-drained soil in full sun to full shade. Very little pruning is required – simply trim to shape after flowering, taking care not to remove all spent blooms as these turn into beautiful red berries. Mulch in spring with a thick layer of well-rotted manure or leaf mould.
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