We love the evergreen Viburnum ‘Moonlit Lace’, a hybrid between Viburnum davidii and V. tinus, but are disappointed at the growth sizes given by on-line vendors. The largest mature size I found on-line is 4′ tall x 5′ wide. Our 8 year old plant below is now 7′ tall x 10′ wide. This is growing in a compost amended sandy loam soil, that never receives any commercial fertilizer. Three years ago, it outgrow our original location, so we cut it back by half and moved it to a new location. Despite all that, it has attained this huge size. Unless you want to sentence yourself to a lifetime of hedge sheer use, which we detest, take heed of its real size, and please share this post with anyone who sells it under the wrong size. Hardiness is most likely Zone 7b-9b.
Thank you for the warning.
I’ve come to the conclusion that ultimate size varies by location. Having lived in the upper midwest & the mid south for decades each, i’ve seen how much faster/bigger plants grow in the South. So I look for size estimates from southern sources.
Also, how long a cultivar has been in propagation matters. Crape Myrtle Natchez is a classic example. When introduced it was believed to be ~30 feet at maturity. Decades of cultivation has it more like ~40 feet. That matters. My front yard is in a TVA easement & I can’t plant a 40 foot tree in it.
So i’m looking for a small tree similar in looks that can take full sun. Do you have any info on Seven Sons Flower?
Well said!
Thanks! I didn’t know. It’s currently flooding GA big box stores, and I think rather new to that scene. Best to get the word out now, while most plants are still pretty small and can be moved.
ive found out the same thing. I’ve got 2 that will be moved this winter.