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Tea-Leaf Viburnum

Viburnum setigerumfam. Adoxaceae
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Viburnum setigerum (Tea-Leaf Viburnum) — botanical photograph
Pl. A99F — Viburnum setigerum
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I

Overview

The Tea-Leaf Viburnum (Viburnum setigerum) is a shrub native to the forests of China's North-Central, South-Central, and Southeast regions, as well as Taiwan. This plant thrives in a variety of soil types, including light sandy, medium, and heavy clay, and prefers a light to partial sun environment. It can grow up to 3.5 meters tall and is known for its adaptability to diverse environments. The Tea-Leaf Viburnum is primarily recognized for its edible fruit, which can be used to make a traditional tea. Additionally, it has a history of medicinal use in traditional practices, though caution should be exercised when considering its use. The shrub's distinctive feature is its ability to grow in moist conditions, making it a valuable addition to temperate regions such as Connecticut, Kentucky, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. While it is not drought-resistant, its medium growth rate and hardiness zones 5-7 make it a suitable choice for gardeners in these areas.

Quick answers

What is Tea-Leaf Viburnum?

The Tea-Leaf Viburnum (Viburnum setigerum) is a shrub native to the forests of China's North-Central, South-Central, and Southeast regions, as well as Taiwan. This plant thrives in a variety of soil types, including light sandy, medium, and heavy clay, and prefers a light to partial sun environment.

Compare with:Bodnant Viburnum→Cranberry bush→Southern Black Haw→all comparisons →
IV·b

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1 draft
Editorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Digestive Harmony
digestion
tincture
Traditional use for digestive issues.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Tea-Leaf Viburnum thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows well in hardiness zones 5-7, making it suitable for temperate regions. This shrub can reach a height of 3.5 meters and produces edible fruit. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist to support healthy growth. Propagate through cuttings or seeds.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-7
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
3.5 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Tea-Leaf Viburnum for the first time

8steps

Start with a simple planting of Tea-Leaf Viburnum to enjoy its beauty and fruit.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A young Tea-Leaf Viburnum plant, garden gloves, and a trowel.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist but not waterlogged.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and prepare a hole twice as wide as the root ball.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant young plants into your garden bed, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Avoid direct sunlight for a few days after planting.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water deeply once a week, especially during dry spells. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape and remove any dead branches. Harvest the fruit when it turns from green to red.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: Tea
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

4 native · 8 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 4 native· 8 introduced
Asia2 regions
native (2)ChinaTaiwan
Broader regions
introduced:Connecticut, Kentucky, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Viburnum setigerum (Tea-Leaf Viburnum) — botanical photograph
Tea-Leaf Viburnum (Viburnum setigerum)
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See also

8 related
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Explore further

Growing zone
XII

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