Viburnum dilatatum Seeds | Linden Viburnum
LATIN NAME: Viburnum dilatatum
COMMON NAME: Linden Viburnum
Plant Profile
Viburnum dilatatum, better known as Linden Viburnum, is a dense, upright, deciduous shrub in the viburnum family. Plant steadily develops a rounded crown, often reaching 5-10 metres. Choose full sun and deep, fertile ground for this plant. At maturity it stands about 5-10 metres. Bees and other pollinators visit the flowers freely through the season. In combination, these characteristics make a persuasive case for growing it.
Science & Biotechnology
Like other members of the viburnum family, Viburnum dilatatum draws steady attention from botanists and plant breeders, who value the genus both as a subject of research and as a source of garden-worthy material. Species has also been studied in botany, since it is a member of viburnum family, and its classification and its relationships have been examined. It retains a following among breeders and collectors, which keeps seed stocks in circulation.
Uses & Benefits
Beyond its ornamental appeal, Linden Viburnum has the practical versatility that makes a plant worth growing from seed year after year. Ecologically, linden arrowwood is a generous shrub of autumn garden. Its white bloom feeds bees and insects, and its brilliant red berries feed birds through autumn and into winter, while it is a handsome presence in woodlands and gardens of the East. After the first season it asks for very little beyond a place that suits it.
Viburnums are the workhorse flowering shrubs, and cramp bark and black haw, two American species, are classical Western herbs for menstrual cramps; the ornamental kinds feed birds with autumn berries.
Growing from Seed
Starting Linden Viburnum from seed is simple and satisfying. Use a loose, well-drained seed compost, sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly, and keep everything evenly moist in full sun. A spell of cool, moist conditions ahead of sowing brings the seed along nicely and supports even germination. Pot the young plants on as they grow, harden them off gradually, and plant them into their final positions when sturdy.
Our Take
Its role in herbal practice, noted above, adds depth to an already garden-worthy plant. Linden Viburnum is the kind of plant that rewards a permanent spot. The seed responds well to a spell of cold stratification, a small step that pays off.
Related Reading
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