viburnum plicatum snowball

Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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Viburnum plicatum snowball is a striking, deciduous shrub loved by gardeners across New Zealand for its profusion of large white flower clusters that resemble fluffy snowballs. This plant brings brilliant interest to gardens in late spring, when its rounded blooms stand out against fresh green foliage. Whether you’re planning a mixed border, informal hedge, or want a feature shrub for year-round appeal, the viburnum plicatum snowball is an exceptional choice. Its graceful, tiered branches and easy-care nature make it suitable for a wide range of garden styles, from classic cottage gardens to modern landscapes.

Viburnum opulus Sterile (Snowball Bush)

Viburnum opulus 'Sterile' is a deciduous shrub known for its beautiful clusters of white flowers without producing berries. This low-maintenance variety is perfect for gardeners seeking a tidy, non-fruiting shrub ideal for hedges, borders, and ornamental planting in New Zealand gardens.

Buy Viburnum opulus Sterile (Snowball Bush)

From $26.93

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Shrubs

Height: 3.00 m

Spread: 3.00 m

Flowering time: Spring

Tolerances: Hardy

Garden uses: Living areas

Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern

Viburnum Hedge Master

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Viburnum Hedge Master is an evergreen shrub grown for its lush and colourful foliage. The glossy foliage emerges red and ages to become dark green. The leaves are held densely off sturdy stems. Left untrimmed it will grow to 2.5 m tall and 2 m wide but it is often contained to smaller sizes. Viburnum Hedge Master is commonly trimmed into a hedge or left untrimmed as an informal hedge. It is also well suited to including in a mixed planting, maintaining in a container, planting around outdoor living areas, or using to border an entrance.

Buy Viburnum Hedge Master

From $26.93

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate

Plant type: Shrubs

Height: 2.50 m

Spread: 2.00 m

Garden uses: Containers, Hedging, Living areas, Pool areas, Screening

Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern

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You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Agapanthus and Viburnum, or related Categories - Perennials Deciduous Shrubs and Evergreen Shrubs.

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Features and Growing Conditions

The viburnum plicatum snowball is admired for its unique, layered habit and showy, pure white flower balls that can reach up to 8 cm across. After flowering, the plant often produces small red berries that ripen to black, adding even more seasonal interest. Mature plants can reach about 2.5 to 3 metres in height and width, making them ideal as medium-sized garden shrubs.

This viburnum thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained, fertile soil. It’s tolerant of both cooler and warmer regions, making it versatile for most parts of New Zealand. The viburnum plicatum snowball is moderately drought-tolerant once established but benefits from mulch and regular watering during dry periods. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a tidy shape and encourage strong growth.

How to Use Viburnum plicatum snowball in Your Garden

Viburnum plicatum snowball is perfect as a feature shrub, where you can fully appreciate its spring flower display and autumn foliage colour. It works beautifully as an informal screen or hedge, and blends well in woodland gardens together with hostas, ferns, and other shade-tolerant plants. For a striking spring border, plant alongside bulbs or evergreen shrubs for contrast.

If you enjoy the look of the classic snowball bush but want slightly different forms and flower displays, consider exploring the Viburnum plicatum family. For example, Viburnum plicatum Mariesii (Doublefile Viburnum) offers flattened, lacecap-style flowers arranged in elegant horizontal layers. Viburnum plicatum Tomentosum (Doublefile Viburnum) also features the decorative double row of white blooms but with a slightly finer texture. For larger blooms, Viburnum plicatum grandiflorum is an excellent option.

Similar Plants

While the viburnum plicatum snowball is a standout, there are other viburnums worth considering. Viburnum opulus roseum (Snowball Bush) is a close relative, known for its massive spherical flowers and reliability as a hedging plant. Each offers a slightly different take on the snowball effect, so browse the range to find the perfect fit for your landscape.

Choosing and Planting Your Viburnum

When selecting a viburnum plicatum snowball, look for healthy, well-structured plants with balanced branches. Autumn and early spring are the best times for planting. Enrich the soil with compost, ensure good drainage, and water in well. A generous layer of mulch will help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. With regular care, your viburnum plicatum snowball will reward you with beautiful displays for years to come.

For more stunning shrubs and to view the full variety, explore our Viburnum plicatum collection to transform your garden.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.