Crampbark
Viburnum opulus
Last reviewed: August 2026
Crampbark (Viburnum opulus) is a perennial shrub. It blooms in May and June. The flowers draw bees and beetles.
Toxicity unknown
Crampbark (Viburnum opulus) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Crampbark as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
72"–144" H × 72"–144" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Native alternatives to Crampbark
Crampbark is not native to the United States. These natives fill a similar role in a planting, matched on bloom season, bloom color and mature size.
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 452 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaCrampbark is a large deciduous shrub that produces showy white flower clusters in late spring. This European viburnum grows into a substantial specimen that can reach 12 feet tall and wide at maturity. It offers three-season interest with spring blooms, summer foliage, and red berries that ripen to black in fall.
Growing Crampbark
Grow Crampbark in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 72 to 144 inches tall and spread 72 to 144 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Crampbark is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Large mature size requires adequate space planning
Wildlife value
Host plant for spring azure butterfly.
The flat-topped flower clusters attract bees and beneficial beetles during the May to June bloom period. Birds feed on the colorful berries in late summer and fall.
Common questions
- When does Viburnum opulus bloom?
- Viburnum opulus produces white flowers during May and June, making it an excellent early summer blooming shrub for northern gardens.
- What pollinators visit Crampbark?
- Bees and beetles are the primary pollinators of Viburnum opulus, with the flat-topped flower clusters providing easy access to nectar and pollen.
- What growing conditions does Viburnum opulus prefer?
- Crampbark grows best in partial shade with medium to high moisture levels. It can tolerate some sun but performs better with afternoon shade in warmer climates.
- Is Crampbark toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Crampbark as toxic to livestock.
- Is Crampbark HOA-friendly?
- Crampbark is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
These answers were drafted with an AI model from this plant's data. Verify care details with a local expert.
Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
If something looks wrong
Common plant problems, and what to check first
These come up on almost any plant. Each guide lists the likely causes in the order they are worth ruling out, with one thing to check before you act on any of them, and links to the source it came from.
- It is dying right after planting
- Leaves turning yellow
- Wilting even though I watered it
- Brown crispy leaf tips
- Bugs on the plant
Ready to grow Crampbark? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Planning a bed around it? Start a free plan with this plant
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz