Culver's root
Viburnum farrerifam. Rubiaceae
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Pl. A0E7 — Viburnum farreri
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IOverview
Overview
Culver's root, scientifically known as Viburnum farreri, is a deciduous shrub native to the North-Central regions of China, including Qinghai and Xinjiang provinces. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Hardy from zones 5-8, it grows up to 3 meters tall. Culver's root is notable for its edible fruit, making it a valuable addition to gardens where it can also serve as an ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance and adaptability in various soil types.
Quick answers
What is Culver's root?
Culver's root, scientifically known as Viburnum farreri, is a deciduous shrub native to the North-Central regions of China, including Qinghai and Xinjiang provinces. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
What is Culver's root used for?
Traditionally used for immune support, digestion. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Culver's root
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Viburnum species have been traditionally used in Chinese medicine for immune support, with Viburnum farreri likely sharing similar properties due to its genus. A decoction of the plant may help bolster the body's defenses against common ailments.
The mechanism is not fully characterised but may involve compounds that modulate immune responses and have anti-inflammatory effects.
- Viburnum species are traditionally used in Chinese medicine to support digestion, with Viburnum farreri potentially offering similar benefits. A decoction of the plant may help alleviate digestive discomfort.
The mechanism is not fully characterised but may involve compounds that aid in regulating gastrointestinal function and reducing inflammation.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Culver's root support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Culver's root thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 5-8 and grows up to 3 meters tall. For successful cultivation, ensure the plant receives adequate moisture and well-draining soil conditions. Propagation can occur through seeds or cuttings. The fruit of Culver's root is edible.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-8
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Culver's root for the first time
7steps
Start with planting Culver's root in a sunny spot and follow these steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Culver's root plants, garden gloves, trowel, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Culver's root in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist and cool.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and prepare containers with potting mix if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from nursery pots into your garden bed, spacing them about 2 meters apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the newly planted Culver's root regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade and regular watering. Prune in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead or damaged branches as needed, and remove any suckers to keep the plant healthy.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Culver's root is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. In its native range, the fruit is often consumed fresh but may also be dried for later use.
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 3 native
Asia1 region
native (1)China
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Rubiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rubiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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