How Much Sun Does a Korean Spice Bush Need?

Identification

• Korean spice bush (Viburnum carlesii), as the name suggests, is native to both Korea and Japan. It is winter hardy to U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 7, though it may grow slightly better in zones 5 and above. It is a member of the Honeysuckle family (Adoxaceae), and is commonly available from nurseries in ball or burlap form. Though it typically grows to between 4 and 6 feet, it may grow up to 8 feet tall in the right environment. Its showy white flowers, blooming in March or April, are commonly considered its best feature.

Light Requirements

• Although it will tolerate both full sun and partial shade, Korean spice bush grows best in partial light conditions, where it is neither too well lit nor too shaded. Although it works well planted with other broadleaf shrubs or used as a foundation plant, it will not appreciate deep shade, so wherever you site it, try to ensure several hours of indirect or dappled sunlight a day. In optimum light conditions, it will reach taller heights than in poor ones.

Culture

• Korean spice bush prefers moist, well-drained soils, preferably slightly acidic in nature and amended with a good deal of organic material, such as compost. An adaptable plant, Korean spice bush puts up with poor soils, a range in soil pH and drought. Although it is generally disease- and pest-resistant, it may experience problems with powdery mildew and bacterial leaf spot. You can propagate it both through seeds and rooted cuttings. Beware that many nursery plants are grafted onto root stock, so you will need to cut suckers as they appear.

Garden Uses

• Because it is leafy and dense, Korean spice bush may be grown alone or in mass plantings. It performs admirably as a hedge or border shrub to create privacy or divide garden areas. It also works as a foundation planting, in entryways or as a specimen, especially notable during early spring when its showy, white, heavily perfumed flowers are on display. Although its late summer berries are not showy, its wine-red fall color adds depth to fall landscapes.