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Wayfaring Tree

Viburnum lantana

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
For more information please download the BSBI Code of Conduct PDF document.

Contents

Plant Profile

Flowering Months:
JAN  FEB  MAR  APR  MAY  JUN  JUL  AUG  SEP  OCT  NOV  DEC
Order:
Dipsacales
Family:
Adoxaceae (Moschatel)
Type:
Deciduous shrub
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Maximum Size:
6 metres tall
Habitats:
Gardens, hedgerows, parks, scrub, woodland.

Flower:
֍
White, 5 petals
 
White, 5 petals. Individual flowers up to 1cm wide. Many-flowered flowerheads up to 10cm across, branched and domed.
Fruit:
Clusters of red and black berries.
Leaves:
A deciduous shrub. Simple leaves that are arranged in opposite pairs along the stems. The leaves are roundish and with prominent teeth.
Aroma:
Fragrant flowers.
Other Names:
Common Wayfaring Tree, Cotton Tree, Coven Tree, Lithy Tree, Mealy Tree, The Cottoner, Traveller's Joy, Twistwood, Wayfarer, Wayfaring Bush, Wayfaring Shrub, Wayfaring Viburnum.
Frequency (UK):
Occasionally seen  

Other Information

Summary

Viburnum lantana is a species of Viburnum, a type of flowering shrub or small tree in the Adoxaceae family. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, and is commonly known as Wayfaring Tree or the Traveller's Joy. It is a deciduous shrub, growing to 4–5 m tall, with a dense, spreading, rounded crown. The leaves are opposite, 3–8 cm long and 2–6 cm broad, dark green and glossy above, paler and duller below. The flowers are produced in corymbs, 3–5 cm diameter, each flower small, creamy white, and with five petals. The fruit is a red, black or dark blue berry, 4–8 mm diameter. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.

Blog

The Wayfaring Tree, also known as Viburnum lantana, is a deciduous shrub that is native to Europe and Asia. This hardy plant can grow up to 6 meters tall and is known for its white or pink flower clusters that bloom in the spring. The Wayfaring Tree is also a popular ornamental plant, thanks to its attractive foliage and easy maintenance.

One of the most distinctive features of the Wayfaring Tree is its leaves, which are dark green and have a glossy appearance. They are also toothed along the edges, adding to the plant's overall aesthetic appeal. In the fall, the leaves turn a brilliant shade of yellow, orange, or red, making it an attractive addition to any garden during the autumn months.

Another reason for the popularity of the Wayfaring Tree is its versatility. It is easy to grow and is suitable for a variety of soil types and growing conditions. This shrub can also be planted in partial shade or full sun, making it a suitable option for gardens of all sizes. It is also relatively pest-resistant, which is a big bonus for gardeners who want to keep their gardens free from harmful insects.

When it comes to care, the Wayfaring Tree is low-maintenance and can be pruned in early spring to control its size and shape. It is also an excellent option for hedgerows and windbreaks, as it is both wind-resistant and tolerant of heavy pruning.

The Wayfaring Tree is an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a touch of beauty to their garden. With its attractive foliage, showy flowers, and low-maintenance requirements, it is no wonder that this shrub is so popular among gardeners. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a beginner, the Wayfaring Tree is a plant that is sure to please.

In addition to its ornamental value, the Wayfaring Tree also has a rich cultural history. In folklore, the tree was believed to protect travelers from harm, hence its name, "Wayfaring Tree." It was also believed to have magical properties and was used in various rituals and ceremonies.

Aside from its cultural significance, the Wayfaring Tree also has medicinal properties. The leaves, bark, and berries of the tree have been used for centuries to treat various ailments such as skin diseases, digestive problems, and respiratory issues. It is important to note, however, that the berries of the Wayfaring Tree are poisonous to humans and should not be consumed.

The Wayfaring Tree is also an important habitat for wildlife. The flowers provide a source of nectar for bees and butterflies, while the berries are a valuable food source for birds. This makes the Wayfaring Tree an excellent option for those who want to create a wildlife-friendly garden.

The Wayfaring Tree is a plant with a rich history and cultural significance, making it a great addition to any garden. Its ornamental value, low-maintenance requirements, and versatility make it a popular choice among gardeners. Its medicinal properties, cultural significance, and value to wildlife make it a plant with a rich history that is well worth considering.

Another interesting aspect of the Wayfaring Tree is its propagation. It can be propagated through seed, cuttings, or layering, making it easy to grow new plants from an existing one. This also makes it an economical choice for gardeners who want to add multiple plants to their garden without having to spend a lot of money.

In addition, the Wayfaring Tree is also a good choice for gardeners who want to attract birds to their garden. The berries are a valuable food source for birds and can provide them with much-needed nutrition during the winter months. This makes the Wayfaring Tree an important plant for bird enthusiasts who want to create a bird-friendly garden.

The Wayfaring Tree is also an excellent choice for gardeners who want to create a privacy screen or a hedge. Its dense foliage and ability to grow tall make it a great option for blocking unwanted views or creating a natural boundary. When planted in a row, it can create an attractive and effective hedge that provides privacy and shelter for wildlife.

In conclusion, the Wayfaring Tree is a versatile, low-maintenance, and attractive plant that is perfect for gardeners of all levels. Its ornamental value, medicinal properties, cultural significance, and value to wildlife make it a plant with many benefits that is well worth considering. Whether you are looking to create a wildlife-friendly garden, a privacy screen, or simply add a touch of beauty to your landscape, the Wayfaring Tree is an excellent option.


Distribution Map

Reproduced by kind permission of the BSBI.

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