Viburnum plicatum f. tomentosum 'Kilimanjaro'

Doublefile Viburnum Adoxaceae

A shrub with the architectural elegance of a snow-covered mountain, Viburnum ‘Kilimanjaro’ is a particularly handsome selection of Japanese snowball, celebrated for its upright, pyramidal habit and beautifully tiered branches. In late spring, the layered framework becomes adorned with abundant lacecap-like flower clusters, opening pure white before taking on delicate pink tones as they age. The deeply veined, dark green foliage provides an attractive backdrop throughout summer, followed by ornamental red berries which mature towards black and offer interest into autumn. As the season draws to a close, the foliage develops rich red-purple and fiery autumn shades. A Chelsea Flower Show Plant of the Year winner in 2015, this elegant deciduous shrub combines floral abundance with a relatively narrow, architectural form, making it a fine specimen for gardens where vertical interest is as welcome as seasonal colour.

Height: 3 m

Spread: 1.5–2 m

Flowering period: May–June

Hardiness: H6 (−20 to −15°C)

Aspect: Full sun to partial shade

Soil: Moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained

Award: RHS Chelsea Flower Show Plant of the Year 2015