Guelder rose and Japanese snowball are often considered for the same spot in the garden (flowers, screening, pollinator friendly). The data below shows where they differ: size, hardiness, care, toxicity and price.
Viburnum opulus 3 m × 2.5 m after 10 years
A fast-growing, large native shrub with lobed, maple-like leaves, flat white lacecap flowers in May and June, red autumn foliage and glossy red…
Viburnum plicatum 2.5 m × 3 m after 10 years
A broad, spreading deciduous shrub with horizontal, tiered branches that are lined with two rows of white flowers in late spring: the lacecap forms…
Guelder rose is hardier: down to -40 °C, against -29 °C for Japanese snowball.
Japanese snowball needs less water than Guelder rose.
Japanese snowball needs less care than Guelder rose.
Guelder rose is cheaper: about €14 at the size usually planted, against about €25 for Japanese snowball.
|
Feature
|
Guelder rose
|
Japanese snowball
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Shrub | Shrub |
| Size after 10 years | 3 m × 2.5 m | 2.5 m × 3 m |
| Ultimate size | 3–5 m × 2.5–4.5 m | 1.5–4.5 m × 1.5–5.5 m |
| Growth rate | Fast | Medium |
| Light | Full sun, Part shade | Full sun, Part shade |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Calcareous, Acidic | Average garden soil, Acidic |
| Hardiness | down to -40 °C (USDA 3, RHS H7) | down to -29 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Deciduous | Deciduous |
| Flowering | May–June, white | April–June, white, pink |
| Water need | High | Medium |
| Drought tolerance | Low | Low |
| Maintenance | Medium | Low |
| Planting distance | 200 cm | 250 cm |
| For children | Mildly toxic | no data |
| Typical price | approx. €14 | approx. €25 |
Prices are rounded, indicative values. Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor. Data updated: October 13, 2026
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