Laurustinus / Lucidum Laurustinus
Botanical Name: Viburnum tinus 'Lucidum'
Family: Adoxaceae
Origin: Mediterranean region
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub
Overview
Viburnum tinus ‘Lucidum’ is a premium glossy-leaf form that makes dense, polished screening in Adelaide’s Mediterranean climate. Pink-tinged buds open to clusters of white, lightly sweet-scented flowers in late winter–spring, followed by metallic blue-black berries that birds adore. Tough, heat- and coast-tolerant, it stays lush with minimal fuss.
Key Features
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Mature Size: 2-4 m H x 2-3 m W
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Growth Rate: 30-60 cm per year under good conditions
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Foliage: Large, glossy deep-green leaves on red-tinged stems; naturally tidy, compact habit
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Flowers: White clusters from pink buds, mainly late winter–spring; light, sweet fragrance up close
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Seasonal Interest: Evergreen backbone; winter–spring bloom; summer–autumn berries for colour and birds
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Wildlife Value: Good for pollinators (bees & beneficials); berries feed birds; dense cover for small birds
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Tolerance: Drought & heat tolerant once established; wind & coastal hardy; light–moderate frost tolerant; handles urban conditions; avoid waterlogging
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Planting Density: Hedge: 1 plant per metre (0.7 m for very tight screens); Specimen: 1.5–2 m apart
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Pet Friendly: Yes — generally non-toxic; berries may cause mild tummy upset if eaten in quantity
Where It Works Best
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Sunlight: Full sun to part shade (more sun = heavier flowering/fruiting)
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Soil: Well-drained loam, sandy loam or improved clay; suits Adelaide’s limestone soils
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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
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Maintenance: Tip-prune after flowering to keep dense and control height (light trims through the year are fine); feed in early spring; mulch annually
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Lifespan: 15-25+ years
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Climate Zones: Suited to temperate and Mediterranean SA gardens, including coastal areas
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Soil pH: Slightly acidic to mildly alkaline
Landscape & Design Ideas
- Privacy hedges with a refined, year-round finish
- Entry and driveway structure; pairs well with olives, westringia and grasses
- Wildlife-friendly screens that bring winter flowers and summer berries
Why You Will Love It
A glossy, low-maintenance screen that flowers in winter when gardens are quiet, then follows with jewel-toned berries. ‘Lucidum’ thrives in Adelaide’s heat and coastal conditions, clips neatly, and looks premium all year.
