Bailey Compact Viburnum

The Bailey Compact Viburnum is a spectacular shrub in fall, turning brilliant scarlet from top to bottom, reminiscent of the invasive burning bush (Euonymus). It is a compact selection of the native highbush cranberry, growing only 5 or 6 feet tall and wide. The attractive leaves are divided into 3 lobes, and stained burgundy in spring. Green through summer, they turn bright scarlet in fall, much stronger coloring than normal in this shrub. Grow it as a specimen in beds or out in woodland settings, or as a neat hedge that needs no trimming. Older plants may produce white flowers and red berries, but this bush is primarily grown for its amazing fall coloring.

• Compact form of a native shrub
• Renowned for its brilliant scarlet fall color
• Attractive tri-lobed foliage is tinted burgundy in spring
• Cold-hardy even in zone 2
• Limited flowering and fruit production

Planting the Bailey Compact Viburnum in full sun will give the strongest leaf colors, but it grows readily in partial shade as well. Moist, well-drained soil is preferred, but not vital, and established plants are tolerant of ordinary summer drought. It is very cold-hardy, growing even in zone 2. It has no serious pests or diseases, and doesn’t need trimming to keep its neat, rounded form.