Wayfaring Tree, Wayfaring Tree Viburnum

Viburnum lantana

Physical Characteristics

Viburnum lantana is a deciduous Shrub growing to 5 m (16ft) by 4 m (13ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil. It cannot tolerate atmospheric pollution.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, from Belgium south and east to Spain, Greece and W. Asia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked. A famine food, it is only used when all else fails[177]. The oblong fruit is about 8mm long and contains a single large seed[200].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

Large quantities of the fruit can cause vomiting and diarrhoea[10, 65]. The fruit is of very low or zero toxicity, it only causes mild upsets when eaten unripe or in large quantities[76].