Burkwood Viburnum - Viburnum x burkwoodii 'Mohawk'

One of the more popular spring-flowering shrubs are the viburnums. But what to choose as there are over 30 different species of viburnums that landscapers can use in Pennsylvania's three USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture) Plant Hardiness Zones (5-7).

One of the earlier flowering viburnums is Viburnum x burkwoodii. While its flowers are beautiful to see and smell (best described as spicy) they are only open for several days (two weeks at the most). This ornamental characteristic was extended from days to a few weeks with the backcross of V. x burkwoodii x V. carlesii to produce V. x burkwoodii 'Mohawk'. Its flowers are white, with red blotches on the other side of the petal (similar to the straight species) in a half globe-shaped cluster. But just as striking as the blooms and smell are the early spring flower bud display. These flower buds show a deep red weeks before flower opening.

Viburnum x burkwoodii 'Mohawk' flowers are preceded by shiny red buds that add to the spring display of colors. Photo: Tom Butzler, Penn State

Viburnum x burkwoodii 'Mohawk' flowers at the breaking point. Notice that some buds have opened into the white flowers while other buds are still closed and showing their red color, lower right-hand corner. Photo: Tom Butzler, Penn State

Like most viburnums, 'Mohawk' thrives in soil that is moist but drains well and is pH adaptable. It performs best in sunny areas but has been noted to do well in light shade. While some viburnums can reach heights of 10-15 feet (e.g., V. rhytidophylloides and V. sieboldii) 'Mohawk' is more compact at 7-8 feet and equal in spread. Glossy, dark green leaves turn in the fall to a variety of orange, yellows, and reds. 'Mohawk' does produce drupes that change from red to black but are not as ornamental as other viburnum species such as V. trilobum and V. dilatatum.

The literature has an extensive list of insects and diseases that can be found on viburnums but rarely are they of concern where treatment is called for.

Glossy, dark green leaves of Viburnum x burkwoodii. Photo: Michael Masiuk, Penn State

Natural growth habit of Viburnum x burkwoodii, although it can be pruned and shaped for desired aesthetics. Photo: Michael Masiuk, Penn State