Viburnum Opulus Snowball Tree

Viburnum opulus Snowball Tree is a medium sized deciduous shrub that reaches around 3 metres tall and wide at maturity. Small green flower clusters appear in spring and gradually swell into large white snowball blooms, giving the plant its common name. The flowers carry a light, pleasant perfume and the shrub performs well in full sun or partial shade across most Australian gardens.

Also known as the European Cranberrybush, Viburnum opulus is native to Europe, northern Africa and central Asia. It belongs to the Adoxaceae family and has been cultivated as an ornamental garden shrub for centuries thanks to its reliable spring display and easy going nature. The rounded growth habit and dense branching make it a dependable choice for gardeners who want structure without constant upkeep.

The dark green leaves are deeply lobed and turn a rich reddish purple in autumn, adding a second season of interest once the flowers have finished. Bright red berries follow the blooms in autumn. They are edible but quite tart, and many home gardeners use them for jams and jellies rather than eating them fresh.

Growing Conditions at a Glance

At maturity, the Viburnum opulus Snowball Tree reaches around 3 metres in both height and width. It grows best in a full sun to part shade position and flowers from spring through early summer. The shrub prefers well drained soil, ideally slightly acidic, though it tolerates a wide range of soil types. It is drought tolerant once established, with mulching in the first summer recommended to help young plants settle in. The plant also handles frost well and only needs a light prune in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and size.

Browse our full range of Viburnum shrubs or explore more deciduous trees and shrubs for other seasonal garden options. For shipping timeframes and coverage, see our delivery information page.

Ready to add a Snowball Tree to your garden? Order your Viburnum opulus today from Online Plants and have it delivered direct to your door. As Australia's largest online nursery, we make it simple to buy plants online with confidence, backed by our 30 day guarantee to grow.