The European Cranberry Bush (Viburnum opulus), often called the Snowball Tree or Guelder Rose, is a beloved ornamental shrub admired for its beautiful white spring blooms and vivid red berries that last into winter.
This hardy deciduous shrub creates a stunning display through every season — white “snowball” flower clusters in spring, lush green foliage in summer, and bright red berries and crimson foliage in autumn. The berries attract birds and pollinators, making it perfect for wildlife-friendly gardens.
Versatile and easy to grow, Viburnum opulus thrives in most soil types and can be used for hedges, borders, or specimen planting in home gardens and landscapes.
Features
- 🌸 Beautiful White Flowers: Large, snowball-like clusters bloom in spring.
- 🍒 Vibrant Red Berries: Decorative fruits that persist into winter.
- 🍂 Seasonal Color: Rich green foliage turns crimson in fall.
- 🐦 Wildlife Friendly: Berries attract birds; flowers attract pollinators.
- ❄️ Cold-Hardy Shrub: Thrives in USDA Zones 3–8.
Specifications
- Common Name: European Cranberry / Snowball Tree / Guelder Rose
- Scientific Name: Viburnum opulus
- Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
- USDA Zones: 3 – 8
- Mature Height: 8 – 15 ft (2.4 – 4.5 m)
- Spread: 8 – 12 ft (2.4 – 3.6 m)
- Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Type: Moist, well-drained soil; tolerates clay
- Watering: Regular when young; moderate once established
- Bloom Time: Late spring
- Foliage Color: Green (summer), red (fall)
- Fruit Color: Bright red
- GMO Status: 100% Non-GMO
Planting Guide
- Seed Preparation: Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours, then cold stratify for 90–120 days.
- Sowing Depth: ¼ inch deep in moist, well-draining soil.
- Temperature: Maintain 65–75°F for germination.
- Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, not waterlogged.
- Light: Partial to full sun.
- Transplanting: Move seedlings outdoors after last frost; space 6–10 ft apart.
Care Tips
- Prune lightly after flowering to shape the shrub.
- Water deeply during dry spells to maintain health.
- Apply mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
- Fertilize annually in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Remove old flower heads to encourage new growth.
