An evergreen viburnum, Viburnum tinus is extremely ornamental. At the same time, it can even grow in the shade and requires little maintenance. But what about in winter? Is this shrub hardy or does it need frost protection?

The Viburnum tinus does not like frost

Poorly hardy

As soon as the temperatures reach the limit of -5 °C, things get tight. Viburnum tinus is poorly hardy due to its homeland in Mediterranean regions. In severe frosts, its shoots freeze, and its evergreen leaves are soon shed. The shoots that are covered with flower buds and would bloom in March/April also freeze when the temperatures drop below -5 °C.

Suitable for milder locations in outdoor cultivation

In wine-growing regions such as Rhineland-Palatinate, Viburnum tinus can stay outside over the winter. But it is urgently necessary to place the plant in a protected place or to select such a location when planting, for example on the wall of the house or in the protection of a wall or hedge. The location should be semi-shady and warm.

Overwinter in cooler regions of Germany

In most regions of Germany, this snowball would not survive the winter outside without protection. Temperatures below -5 °C are typical in winter and not uncommon. It is therefore advisable to protect Viburnum tinus with brushwood, leaves or compost in the root area. The shoots should also be wrapped with fleece, jute or foil.

It is better to plant this plant in the bucket right away so that it can be put inside in the fall and overwintered:

  • choose a bright and frost-free place
  • Temperatures between 5 and 10 °C are optimal
  • water sparingly
  • don't worry if evergreen leaves are shed
  • put it outside again from February (protect with fleece in case of frost)

After the winter the flowering begins

You should not move your plant too late or free it from winter protection. As soon as the first days of spring arrive, the flowering season begins. The flowers emit a strong fragrance and are sensitive to frost.

tips

A cultivar of Viburnum tinus that is considered to be quite frost hardy is 'Exbury Form'. But it's not made for rough conditions and temperatures below -10 °C either.

Category:

Herbs