Viburnum (Viburnum bracteatum 'Smvdbl' ALL THAT GLOWS)

Overview

Viburnum bracteatum ‘Smvdbl’ ALL THAT GLOWS is a fantastic, low-maintenance cultivar valued for its manageable size and glossy foliage, making it a standout addition to modern landscapes. This deciduous shrub offers ornamental interest from its spring blooms through its late summer fruit display. Gardeners appreciate this specific Viburnum variety for being a more compact substitute for the species plant.

This cultivar, known commercially as ALL THAT GLOWS, typically matures between 4 to 6 feet in height and spread, fitting well where larger shrubs might overwhelm the space. It is adaptable, thriving across USDA zones 6 through 8 with minimal fuss, provided basic soil and moisture needs are met.

The appeal of this Viburnum extends beyond form; it features dark green, glossy leaves that transition through attractive seasonal colors. Whether used as a foundational planting or integrated into mixed borders, Viburnum bracteatum ‘Smvdbl’ ALL THAT GLOWS provides reliable structure and texture throughout the growing season.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Adoxaceae
• Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 6-8
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 4-6 ft
  • Spread: 4-6 ft
• Bloom Time: May to June
• Bloom Description: White
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Water Needs: Medium
• Maintenance Level: Low

How to Grow

Successful cultivation of Viburnum bracteatum ‘Smvdbl’ ALL THAT GLOWS begins with proper site selection. Aim for a location receiving full sun to partial shade. This Viburnum prefers average, medium moisture, well-drained soils; while it performs best in moist loams, it exhibits tolerance across a wide range of soil types. Plant during the cooler months, spring or fall, allowing the root system to establish before summer heat arrives.

Watering should be consistent during the first growing season to encourage deep root development. Once established, this Viburnum shows good drought tolerance, though medium moisture levels are ideal during dry spells. Avoid heavy fertilization; the variety is low maintenance and does not usually require supplemental feeding unless the native soil is extremely poor.

Pruning for this compact shrub should be minimal and strategic. Any necessary shaping or size reduction must be performed immediately after the flowering period concludes in late June. Pruning later in the year will remove potential flower buds for the following spring.

Landscape Uses

The manageable 4 to 6-foot stature of Viburnum bracteatum ‘Smvdbl’ ALL THAT GLOWS makes it highly versatile in landscape design. It excels when utilized for creating formal or informal hedges, providing a dense, neat screen without the aggressive growth of some landscape shrubs. Its dense habit is perfect for shrub borders, adding mid-level structure between lower groundcovers and taller background plantings.

For foundation plantings, the consistent size and clean appearance of this cultivar are major assets, offering year-round structure near buildings. Plant Viburnum bracteatum ‘Smvdbl’ ALL THAT GLOWS in groups of odd numbers to create a significant visual impact, or use single specimens to anchor corners in a layered design.

Because this Viburnum is deer tolerant—a significant advantage in many regions—it can be safely incorporated into mixed borders alongside other perennials and shrubs that deer frequently browse. Its late spring white blooms harmonize well with early summer flowering perennials like peonies or irises.

Standout Features

Flower Qualities

• Showy
• Fragrant

Fruit Qualities

• Showy

Noteworthy Characteristics

Viburnum bracteatum, commonly called bracted viburnum, limerock arrowwood or naked witherod, is a deciduous shrub that typically grows to 6-10’ tall and as wide. Its survival in nature is currently threatened by limestone mining in its native range spanning parts of Alabama, Tennessee, and Georgia. The cultivar ‘SMVDBL’, sold in commerce under the trade name of ALL THAT GLOWS, primarily differs from species plants by being a more compact version (typically growing to 4-6’ tall and as wide) featuring shinier/glossier foliage compared to the parent species. This compact form makes Viburnum bracteatum ‘Smvdbl’ ALL THAT GLOWS an excellent modern landscape choice.

Tolerances

• Deer

Potential Problems

Viburnum bracteatum ‘Smvdbl’ ALL THAT GLOWS is generally recognized as a tough, disease-resistant shrub. Gardeners rarely encounter serious insect or disease issues when the plant is sited correctly. Maintenance is low precisely because pests like aphids, scale, or common fungal issues tend to bypass this species.

If you observe stress, ensure watering is consistent; sporadic deep watering is better than frequent shallow sprinkles. Proper air circulation aids in disease prevention, though susceptibility is already low for this Viburnum. Monitor for general environmental stress rather than specific pathogens.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Viburnum suitable for?

This specific cultivar, Viburnum bracteatum ‘Smvdbl’ ALL THAT GLOWS, performs reliably across USDA Hardiness Zones 6 through 8.

How large does Viburnum bracteatum ‘Smvdbl’ ALL THAT GLOWS grow?

It typically reaches a height and spread of 4 to 6 feet, offering a compact presence ideal for most residential gardens.

When does Viburnum bloom?

This shrub produces its showy, fragrant white flowers spanning the late spring season, generally from May into June.

What sun exposure does the plant need?

Viburnum bracteatum ‘Smvdbl’ ALL THAT GLOWS thrives with flexibility, performing well in conditions ranging from full sun exposure to partial shade.

Conclusion

The Viburnum cultivar ALL THAT GLOWS offers gardeners reliability, aesthetic appeal from glossy foliage, and low maintenance demands, making it a superb selection for structure and seasonal beauty. Given that Viburnum bracteatum ‘Smvdbl’ ALL THAT GLOWS manages deer pressure and maintains a manageable size, it is a winning choice for modern plantings. Before planting, always confirm your location falls within USDA Zones 6-8 and amend the site to ensure adequate drainage.

Companion Planting

When integrating Viburnum bracteatum ‘Smvdbl’ ALL THAT GLOWS into borders, select companions that share its preference for medium moisture and tolerance for sun or part shade. For spring contrast against the white blooms, consider early-blooming perennials like Peonies (Paeonia) or Dwarf Irises (Iris). Later in the season, groundcovers that enjoy dappled light, such as Hosta varieties with yellow or blue foliage, can complement the shrub’s deep green leaves.

If using this Viburnum as an informal hedge, consider pairing it with other low-maintenance, visually strong shrubs. For example, blending it with early-blooming evergreens like dwarf rhododendrons or compact spireas will create evergreen interest behind the deciduous structure of ALL THAT GLOWS during winter.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Early Spring (Pre-Bloom): A light application of balanced fertilizer, if necessary, should be done just as new growth begins. Monitor soil moisture levels as spring rains can vary; adequate water ensures the best bloom set for your Viburnum.

Late Spring/Early Summer (Post-Bloom): This is the critical window for pruning. Immediately following the white flowers fading in June, perform any necessary shaping to maintain the desired hedge size or form. Remember, pruning after this point risks cutting off next year’s flowers.

Summer/Fall: Allow established plants to utilize their drought tolerance, watering deeply only during extended dry spells. The blue-black fruits will mature, attracting birds. Fall care is minimal; avoid heavy fertilization to allow the plant to harden off naturally for winter dormancy.