Key features
AwardsRHS Award of Garden Merit
Final size2 x 2 metres in 20 years
FoliageGreen leaves year-round (semi-evergreen)
SoilPrefers moist yet well-draining soil
Description
Viburnum erubescens ‘Eskimo’ is a cross between Viburnum Cayuga and Viburnum Utile, making a wonderful dense semi-evergreen shrub that is smothered in pure white, snow ball like inflorescence in May. The heavy crops of lightly scented summer flowers open from white buds that are tinged with pink. The semi-evergreen foliage is glossy dark green in all seasons and will only fall in very cold winters.
The white tubular flowers of Viburnum ‘Eskimo’ are followed by sparse red fruits that mature to black. ‘Eskimo’ was first introduced in 1981 from the U.S National Arboretum and makes a wonderful small garden tree or shrub. This variety of Viburnum prefers a moist, well-drained site in a sunny or partially shaded position. It has an estimated final height and spread of 2 x 2m.
AKA Viburnum ‘Eskimo’, Arrowwood Eskimo
Planting Steps
1Preparation
- Pot-grown plants can be planted at any time of year, whereas bare roots need to be planted between November and March.
- Clear weeds and grass within a metre of the planting hole.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root mass and twice as wide.
- To help your plant establish more effectively, sprinkle Rootgrow in the hole.
2Planting
- Gently loosen the roots and place into the planting hole.
- Ensure the top of the plant’s compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the graft union or collar of the tree is above ground level.
- Mix 50% of the original soil with 50% compost.
- Fill in the hole, firming the soil gently.
3Last Steps
- Water generously around the base of the plant.
- If you are planting either a single stem tree or mature standard tree, we recommend adding a staking kit and rabbit guard.
Aftercare Advice
Trees and shrubs require a good watering regime for a couple of years whilst they establish. Water well and regularly through spring and summer, increasing in hot or dry weather. If planting in autumn, you may only need to water a little. It is advisable to keep the area free of competing weeds and grass during this period.
For more detailed advice and video guides, please visit our Help & Advice section.
