Viburnum carlesii 'Korean Spice Viburnum' is a highly fragrant deciduous shrub prized for its rounded clusters of pink buds that open to soft white flowers in spring. Its rich clove like scent and compact branching habit make it a standout in foundation plantings and borders, while its foliage provides attractive seasonal interest. Height & Spread: 4 - 6 ft x 4 - 6 ft Bloom Time: Mid spring Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade Soil Preference: Average well drained soil Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture Deer Resistance: Deer resistant Native Status This species is native to Korea and Japan and is widely grown as an ornamental shrub for its exceptional fragrance and reliable spring flowering display. WILDLIFE & INSECTS Butterflies Attracts early season butterflies such as Spring Azures and Eastern Tiger Swallowtails that visit the fragrant blooms for nectar. Bees Supports native bees and honeybees which forage on the abundant spring flowers. Birds Produces red to black berries later in the season that are eaten by songbirds. Spacing & Landscape Use Spacing Recommendations Space 4 - 6 ft apart to allow for its naturally rounded habit to develop fully. Landscape Placement Ideal for foundation plantings, mixed shrub borders, and near entryways where its strong fragrance can be appreciated in spring. Companion Plants Hydrangea paniculata 'Little Lime' (Panicle Hydrangea) - Provides summer bloom contrast and complements the shrub structure. Itea virginica 'Henry's Garnet' (Virginia Sweetspire) - Adds native interest and strong fall color beneath or alongside viburnum. Spiraea japonica 'Goldmound' (Japanese Spirea) - Offers bright foliage contrast and reliable seasonal color. Helleborus orientalis (Lenten Rose) - Brings early spring blooms that coincide with viburnum flowering. Hakonechloa macra (Japanese Forest Grass) - Softens the base with flowing texture in part shade settings.
