Viburnum opulus - common snowball

Viburnum opulus, generally known as an ordinary snowball or common snowball, is a deciduous shrub that is native to moderate climate zones. This plant is known for its decorative flowers, berries and versatile applications in gardens.

Botanical characteristics

Viburnum Opulus is a shrub that reaches growth heights of 2 to 4 meters. The leaves are arranged, hand -shaped and have a striking three -lobed shape. In spring, the ordinary snowball shows striking, white flowers in spherical inflorescences. In summer, red, later dark purple berries develop from it that enrich the autumn landscape. The bark is gray-brown and develops a scaly texture in old age.

Ecological features

Viburnum opulus is native to Europe, North Africa and parts of Asia and prefers moist to wet locations, such as the riparian zones of waters and moist forests. This plant plays an ecologically important role by offering the habitat and food for different animals. The flowers attract bees and butterflies, while the berries attract birds and thus contribute to the spread of the plant. The leaves serve as food for caterpillars of certain types of butterflies.

Gardening applications

Viburnum Opulus is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and parks due to their decorative flowers, berries and autumn color. There are different types and hybrids that have different features, such as the snowball hydrangea (Viburnum opulus 'roseum'), which is known for its spherical inflorescences. This plant is well suited as an ornamental shrub, hedge or solitary plant and can be used in a variety of landscapes.

Botanical ingredients

Viburnum opulus contains various bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids and tannins. These ingredients not only give the plant its decorative properties, but also have potential medical applications. In some cultures, extracts from Viburnum Opulus have traditionally been used to treat symptoms such as fever and rheumatic diseases.

Conservation and use in medicine

Despite their diverse applications in garden culture and traditional medicine, there are no specific threats to Viburnum Opulus. In some regions, however, the plant is endangered by excessive collecting and loss of habitat. Sustainable cultivation, protection of natural habitats and research to use the medical potential are crucial to ensure sustainable use of this plant.