Viburnum Odoratissimum 'Coppertop'

Coppertop / 'Coppertop' Sweet Viburnum

Botanical Name: Viburnum-odoratissimum 'Coppertop'
Family: Adoxaceae
Origin: East & Southeast Asia
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub

Overview

‘Coppertop’ is a compact, glossy-leaf sweet viburnum bred for brilliant copper-red new growth that matures to deep green—delivering a premium hedge with seasonal colour in Adelaide’s Mediterranean climate. In late winter–spring it bears clusters of white, sweetly perfumed flowers, with a light encore in summer if trimmed lightly. Heat, coastal wind and alkaline (limestone) soils are no drama once established.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 1.8–2.5 m H × 1.2–2.0 m W (easily kept 1.8–2.2 m with pruning)
• Growth Rate: 40-70 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Large, glossy leaves; naturally tidy, compact habit
• Flowers: White clusters, mainly late winter–spring (light summer rebloom); sweet fragrance
  
• Seasonal Interest: Evergreen backbone with repeating copper flushes; fragrant bloom in the cooler months; occasional red-to-black berries if unpruned after flowering
• Wildlife Value: Good for pollinators (bees & beneficials); berries may feed birds; dense cover for small birds
• Tolerance: Drought & heat tolerant once established; wind & coastal hardy; light–moderate frost tolerant; copes with alkaline/limestone soils; avoid prolonged waterlogging
• Planting Density: Hedge: 1 plant per metre (0.7 m for ultra-tight screens); Specimen: 1.5–2 m apart
• Pet Friendly: Yes — generally non-toxic; ingestion of berries/leaves may cause mild tummy upset (discourage chewing)

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun to part shade (more sun = stronger colour & denser hedge)
• Soil: Well-drained loam, sandy loam or improved clay; mulch to keep roots cool
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 10–14 days in summer (more in heatwaves); monthly in winter if dry
• Maintenance: Tip-prune after flowering to keep compact and encourage coppery flushes; clip 3–6×/yr for a formal hedge; feed early spring with slow-release fertiliser; refresh mulch annually
• Lifespan: 20-30+ years
• Climate Zones: Suited to temperate and Mediterranean SA gardens, including coastal areas
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to mildly alkaline

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Refined privacy hedges along boundaries and driveways
• Entry statements and courtyard screens with year-round gloss and spring fragrance
• Pair with westringia, olives and ornamental grasses for a modern Mediterranean palette

Why You Will Love It

A fast, glossy hedge with showy copper new growth and real fragrance when much of the garden is quiet. ‘Coppertop’ is Adelaide-tough, clips beautifully, and provides reliable privacy with premium, low-fuss polish.