Fragrant Mohawk Viburnum burkwoodi
Best low-maintenance shrub for gardeners seeking intense fragrance and seasonal color.
The Mohawk Viburnum, released in 1966 and a recipient of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society Gold Medal Plant award, is a highly regarded flowering shrub. It is known for its exceptionally fragrant white flowers that emerge from striking cherry-red buds, making it a standout in any garden. This compact variety offers handsome foliage that turns vibrant shades of orange and red in the fall, adding seasonal interest. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and is relatively low maintenance, making it an excellent choice for hedges, borders, or as a specimen plant. Its deer resistance and drought tolerance further enhance its appeal.
$93.97
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
856
/ 2594
#856 in Bushes & Shrubs
Price vs Category Average
+139%
Above average
Shrub Type
Deciduous Flowering Shrub
/ Deciduous Flowering Shrub
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking a highly aromatic spring landscape
- Homeowners wanting year-round visual variety
- Busy gardeners preferring low-maintenance, resilient plants
Who should skip it
- Gardeners prioritizing long-lasting floral displays
- Urban gardeners with limited planting space
- Gardeners wanting a completely hands-off, pest-free shrub
Performance breakdown
Fragrance Intensity
Unrivaled scent profile sets the gold standard for flowering shrubs.
Seasonal Versatility
Striking red buds and vibrant autumn foliage provide year-round visual interest.
Maintenance Requirements
Low-effort growth habit makes this an ideal choice for busy gardeners.
Environmental Resilience
Robust tolerance against deer, drought, and common garden pests.
Growth Habit
Compact structure fits perfectly into smaller landscapes and formal borders.
Adaptability
Thrives across a wide range of zones with minimal soil fuss.
Key Specs
Shrub Type
Deciduous Flowering Shrub
Height at Maturity
8-10'
Width at Maturity
8-10'
Flower Color
Red buds, White flowers
Flowering Period
Mid Spring
Foliage Color
Dark Green
Soil Type
Clay (Amended), Loam, Sandy (Amended), Silty
USDA Plant Hardiness Zones
4a-8b
Features
- Produces the most fragrant flowers of any Viburnum.
- Features cherry-red buds that open to white flowers.
- Offers more compact growth compared to other Viburnum x burkwoodi.
- Displays more colorful fall foliage in shades of bright orange and red.
- Exceptionally easy to grow and low maintenance.
- Resistant to deer, disease, drought, and insects.
- Can be pruned to form an attractive small tree.
- Ideal for fragrance gardens, white theme gardens, and cut flower gardens.
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the exceptional quality of the Fragrant Mohawk Viburnum from Wilson Bros Gardens. Many reviewers highlight receiving healthy, well packaged plants that establish quickly and show vigorous growth. The plant's distinctive, sweet fragrance is a frequently celebrated feature, adding significant appeal to garden spaces. Buyers appreciate the robust nature of these viburnums, noting their ability to thrive and become a beautiful, aromatic focal point. This consistent positive experience underscores both the plant's inherent quality and its delightful sensory contribution.
Know before you buy
The Mohawk Viburnum is widely considered the most fragrant variety within the Viburnum x burkwoodi group. Its scent is potent and sweet, making it an excellent choice for planting near windows, patios, or walkways where you can enjoy the aroma.
No, it is considered a low-maintenance plant. Once established, it is notably resilient against drought, disease, and pests, requiring only minimal care to thrive.
Yes, while it reaches 8 to 10 feet at maturity, it responds well to pruning. You can easily maintain it at a smaller size or even prune it into the shape of a small, attractive tree.
This variety is known for its deer resistance. While no plant is entirely deer-proof, the Mohawk Viburnum is rarely bothered by deer in most garden settings.
Unlike many other shrubs that simply turn brown or yellow, the Mohawk Viburnum offers vibrant fall interest. Its foliage transitions into striking shades of bright orange and red before dropping for the winter.
This shrub performs best in full sun to partial shade. Providing at least six hours of sunlight will ensure the best flower production and the most vibrant fall foliage color.
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$94