The Tea Viburnum  ("Viburnum setigerum")

All seasons have their beauty. Fall is the season for seeds and berries. Scattered throughout the arboretum are several  multi-stemmed shrubs loaded with clusters of bright red berries.  The Tea Viburnum was introduced here from China in the early 1900’s. In May it has white flowers arranged in flat topped cymes, 1-2 inches across. The foliage is a soft flat, blue-green that may turn reddish purple in the fall. This shrub puts on a spectacular show in the fall when it is laden with clusters of 1/3 to 1/2 inch ovoid, bright red berries. The berries last until winter. Some think this viburnum has the best display of berries. The Tea Viburnum grows 8-12 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide. It prefers sun to part shade and moist, well-drained soil. It has no serious pests or diseases. The leaves were used to make tea. Stroll through the arboretum and see how many Tea Viburnums you can find. Start with the plants bordering the overlook/wedding garden and meander along the brick sidewalks to the friendship garden. It’s a relaxing way to spend an autumn day.