Identification

• Viburnum rhytidophyllum is the genus and species name of leatherleaf. It is native to China and is featured for its thick glossy green leaves that are much more rigid than other viburnum species. The leaves are 3 to 7 inches long with a pointed lance shape. Leaves are evergreen except in very icy areas, where they will droop and sometimes fall. Viburnums generally grow quickly, but leatherleaf is classified as a medium-fast grower. The ivory colored flower buds are present from summer until they open in spring. The fragrant blooms can be 4 to 8 inches across.
  
  

Site

• Leatherleaf viburnum is the most shade tolerant variety in the genus. Like all viburnums, it requires organic rich soils that are well-drained. Leatherleaf will produce copious flowers in full shade as long as there is plenty of moisture available. Viburnum does not tolerate windy conditions and does best in a sheltered location. Leatherleaf viburnum can be used as a screen when planted in mass or used as a backdrop to other smaller plants. It is ideal as an understory planting around large trees.
  
  

Rust Disease

• Rust is caused by a fungus and primarily affects ornamental plants. It does not kill the plant, but it makes the foliage look disreputable. This is a problem when you are growing the plant for its foliage as in the case of the leatherleaf viburnum. Rust usually appears first as yellowing of the leaves and progresses to powdery spots that are yellow, orange, black or brown. The fungus may produce surface scarring on the leaves as well. Rust is spread by spores that are carried by splashing water or wind-borne.
  
  

Prevention

• Cultural control has a big impact on the cessation of rust disease. Watering viburnums overhead can leave the foliage moist and ready to receive spores. Root watering is the best option, but the water force cannot be such that it causes splashing. The fungus lives in soil and will travel in splashing water onto the foliage. Slow, deep watering is the best way to avoid spreading the disease. Remove all affected parts and destroy them. Fungicides have some control but must be applied in early spring before the disease has surfaced. Safe, natural fungicides such as baking soda, neem oil and sulfur show some efficacy in dealing with the fungus. Sulfur is the oldest recorded fungicide and exhibits the best method of control.