Hobble-Bush (Viburnum lantanoides)

Also known as: Alder-Leaved Viburnum, American Wayfaring Tree

The name "hobblebush" for Viburnum lantanoides is derived from its extensive, low-growing branches that can trip and "hobble" passersby. This deciduous shrub typically reaches heights of 91 to 183 cm. In the spring, it produces clusters of fragrant white flowers, followed by edible red berries that mature to a deep purple by fall. The foliage also transitions from bronze-red to purple as the seasons change.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Hobble-Bush

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

2 m to 4 m

Spread

2.5 m to 3 m

Leaf Color

Green Yellow Red Purple

Flower Size

3 cm to 5 cm

Flower Color

White Yellow

Images of Hobble-Bush

Quickly Identify Hobble-Bush

Heart-shaped leaves with toothed margins, turning reddish-purple in fall.

Large clusters of creamy-white flowers transitioning to red then black fruit.

Drupes starting red, maturing to glossy deep purple, attracting wildlife.

Opposite hairy stems with lenticels, rooting branches upon contact with the ground.

Trunk bark evolves from warty gray to ridged and furrowed, distinctive as it ages.

Scientific Classification of Hobble-Bush

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Dipsacales

Family

Moschatel

Genus

Viburnum

Species

Hobble-Bush

Planting and Growing of Hobble-Bush

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

5.5-6.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Hobble-Bush?

When watering Viburnum lantanoides, aim to thoroughly saturate the soil with approximately 500 milliliters of water, allowing it to seep down to the root level. Ensure the water reaches a soil depth of about 6 inches. This approach ensures that the roots are adequately hydrated without oversaturating the soil environment.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Hobble-Bush? ›

What should I do if my Hobble-Bush is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Hobble-Bush? ›

How to save an overwatered Hobble-Bush? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Hobble-Bush?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: Four to six hours

This plant prefers partial sun to full shade. Ideally, exposure to indirect, dappled sunlight similar to its native habitat is the healthiest and promotes lush foliage without the risk of overheating or burning.

How much sun does it need? ›

What if there's too much light? ›

What type of light is ideal? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Hobble-Bush?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Viburnum lantanoides, also known as Hobblebush, lies between 60°F to 75°F. Maintaining this range ensures optimal growth, as it supports their native habitat conditions found in the understory of hardwood forests in eastern North America. Properly aligning the temperature with this range encourages thriving foliage and a robust plant structure.

What Soil is Best for Hobble-Bush?

Soil type: Loam, Acidic soil, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 5.5 ~ 6.5

Viburnum lantanoides thrives in well-aerated soils, which ensure that roots receive adequate oxygen. This promotes healthy root development and overall robust plant growth. The species requires soil that can maintain moisture without becoming waterlogged. Proper moisture balance supports the plant's hydration needs and prevents root rot. Nutrient-rich soils are essential for optimal growth, offering the necessary minerals and nutrients that sustain the plant's life processes. This, in turn, enhances flowering and foliage.

How to Fertilize Hobble-Bush?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Viburnum lantanoides should be fertilized with a balanced 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 fertilizer. The amount should be roughly 1 cup of granules dispersed evenly over the area where the roots are growing. If using liquid fertilizer, dilute it to half the recommended strength and apply evenly over the soil surface.

How to Prune Hobble-Bush?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by removing any dead or diseased branches, cutting them back to healthy wood. Thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation and access to sunlight. Trim back any branches that spoil the plant's natural shape while ensuring you maintain its graceful arching habit. Focus on enhancing its shape and removing weak or crossing branches. For Spring-flowering Viburnum lantanoides, ensure pruning after flowering to not disrupt the blooming cycle. Late spring is ideal once flowers fade, as it allows cuts to heal before the dormant period begins, setting up the plant for robust blooms the following year. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Hobble-Bush plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Late spring,Early spring

Collect seeds from ripe berries during late summer. Clean the seeds by removing the pulp, and let them dry before sowing to increase the chances of successful germination.

Take cuttings of about 4 to 6 inches from the parent plant in early spring. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut ends in rooting hormone to stimulate root growth.

Choose a lower branch of an existing plant, bend it to the ground, and cover a section with soil. Make a slight wound on the portion that will be under the soil to encourage root formation.

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How to Repot Hobble-Bush plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Viburnum lantanoides should be repotted when you notice its roots have begun emerging from the drainage holes, or the soil has compacted significantly. Another indicator is when the plant's growth rate decreases, signaling space constraints. Repotting in spring or autumn is ideal, as these seasons provide moderate weather, minimizing the stress on the plant during its transition.

Select a pot with enough drainage holes to prevent water logging, which is crucial for preventing root rot. Opt for a size larger than the previous pot to allow root expansion and support robust growth. Using terracotta or another breathable material helps in maintaining soil aeration, ensuring vibrant and healthy plant development.

Choose a well-draining, loamy soil mix that is enriched with organic matter. This type of soil retains sufficient moisture while allowing excess to drain away, thus preventing root rot. The presence of organic matter enriches the soil, providing essential nutrients necessary for the vibrant growth of Viburnum lantanoides.

Toxicity of Hobble-Bush

Is Hobble-Bush toxic to cat?

The 'hobble-Bush' presents a mild level of toxicity for felines. Incidents typically arise when cats consume substantial amounts of this plant, particularly the fruits, which contain the toxic elements. A cat that has ingested 'hobble-Bush' may display symptoms of physical discomfort or illness that should raise concerns. It is vital for cat owners to be aware of the potential dangers and to carefully monitor their pets for any signs of distress. Taking prompt action is vital; if there is a suspicion of poisoning, seeking immediate veterinary assistance is crucial to safeguard the animal's health and well-being.

Is Hobble-Bush toxic to dog?

The plant species known as hobble-Bush is recognized for its mild toxicity to dogs. If dogs ingest large quantities of this plant, particularly its fruits, which are the most toxic components, they can suffer from poisoning. Following the consumption of a substantial amount of hobble-Bush fruits, dogs may show symptoms consistent with toxicity. These symptoms can include gastrointestinal disturbances, such as vomiting and diarrhea, along with lethargy, or even more serious manifestations based on the quantity ingested. It is essential for dog owners to keep a close eye on their pets and restrict their access to these fruits in order to prevent potential poisoning occurrences. Should a dog consume hobble-Bush and exhibit negative reactions, it is vital to seek prompt veterinary care to safeguard the health and well-being of the pet.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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