by Susan Harris

Virburnun rudum 'Winterthur' is loved for its just-right size (to 5 or so feet tall and wide), perfect shape, and gorgeous fall color, berries included.

The species is native to all of the Eastern U.S.

Oh, about those berries. Turns out it needs an appropriate mate nearby to bloom and berry. I grow just one, so its boyfriend must be some other Viburnum in my garden or a neighbor’s, one that blooms at the same time. Here’s a terrific discussion about how to find the right pollinator for your Winterthur.

Details

• A perfect size for near the house: 5-7 feet tall and wide (mine stopped growing at 5×5).
• Happy in full sun or partial shade.
• Hardy in Zones 5 to 9.
• Has small white blooms in April — May.
• Especially known for its gorgeous fall foliage and blue berries.
• Attracts butterflies and birds, but not deer.

Care

• Requires a “moderate to wet soil," according to sources. So give it some supplemental water during droughts.

• Mine gets no pruning at all except the removal of branches that may be lying on the groundcover.