Leatherleaf Viburnum

About this plant

The Leatherleaf Viburnum (Viburnum rhytidophyllum) is an impressive broadleaf evergreen shrub prized for its deeply wrinkled, dark green leaves that resemble aged leather. This distinctive texture creates a dramatic focal point in any landscape, providing excellent contrast against finer-leaved plants and a consistent backdrop throughout the winter. In spring, this handsome Viburnum produces clusters of creamy white flowers, which are followed by decorative red berries that mature to glossy black in the fall. These berries are a favorite food source for birds, adding an ecological benefit to its ornamental appeal. Ideal for creating screens, hedges, or as a striking specimen plant, the Leatherleaf Viburnum is a resilient choice for a low-maintenance, high-impact landscape. Its architectural form and persistent foliage ensure enduring beauty in your garden.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Prefers full sun to partial shade. Established plants are drought-tolerant. Prune after flowering to maintain shape or control size. Minimal pruning is typically required, primarily for removing dead or damaged branches.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.