Viburnum opulus Guelder rose (Caprifoliaceae) Deciduous shrub

Browse Plants Articles

Power Search!

Browse Botanic Names

Sponsored By KhorWills

Viburnum opulus
Guelder rose
Deciduous shrub
(1 Page of 5)

The Viburnum opulus plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Caprifoliaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Guelder rose.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Viburnum opulus
Common Name:  Guelder rose
Family:  Caprifoliaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  Large quantities of the fruit can cause vomitting and diarrhoea[10, 65]. The fruit is of very low or zero toxicity, it only causes mild upsets when eaten unripe or in large quantities[65, 76].

Mature Height:  5   Mature Width:  5

Habitat:  Hedges, scrub and woodland, usually on damp soils[3, 13, 17].

Medicinal Information: Guelder rose is a powerful antispasmodic and is much used in the treatment of asthma, cramps and other conditions such as colic or painful menstruation[254]. It is also used as a sedative remedy for nervous conditions[254]. The bark is antispasmodic, astringent and sedative[4, 9, 46, 165, 213]. The bark contains 'scopoletin', a coumarin that has a sedative affect on the uterus[238]. A tea is used internally to relieve all types of spasms, including menstrual cramps, spasms after childbirth and threatened miscarriage[9, 222, 238]. It is also used in the treatment of nervous complaints and debility[4, 46, 165, 213]. The bark is harvested in tha autumn before the leaves change colour, or in the spring before the leaf buds open. It is dried for later use[238]. The leaves and fruits are antiscorbutic, emetic and laxative[4, 222]. A homeopathic remedy is made from the fresh bark[9]. It is used in the treatmment of menstrual pain and spasms after childbirth[9].

For further Viburnum opulus gardening information
click on one of the blue links below

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
View their bibliography
Useful Edible Plants Future