Bold Red New Growth on a Tough, Large Viburnum

Red Feather Viburnum (Viburnum lantana 'Red Feather') is grown for the striking red color of its emerging leaves and stems in spring, a feathery flush of red over the large, textured shrub. Flat clusters of creamy-white flowers appear in spring, followed by berries that shift from red to black to feed birds, and the bold foliage takes on color again in fall. Exceptionally tough, adaptable, and deer-resistant, it makes a substantial screen or specimen in Minnetonka, Lakeville, and Blaine.

Landscape Uses

Use Red Feather as a screen, hedge, or large specimen in borders and wildlife plantings. Its red new growth, spring flowers, colorful berries, and fall color provide multi-season interest, and it tolerates tougher, drier sites than many viburnums.

Best Time to Plant

Plant in spring or early fall, when cooler weather and steady moisture help roots establish.

How to Plant

Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Set the crown level with the soil, backfill, water in well, and mulch 2–3 inches deep, keeping mulch off the stems.

Watering

First Year: Water deeply 2–3 times per week to establish the roots.
After Year One: Water during dry spells; it tolerates drier soil better than most viburnums once established.
Drip Irrigation: A drip line keeps the root zone evenly moist while establishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Red Feather distinctive?
Its emerging spring foliage and stems are boldly red, giving a feathery red flush over the shrub.

How big does it get?
About 8–10 feet, making a substantial screen or specimen.

Is it hardy in Minnesota?
Yes, hardy to Zone 3 and reliable statewide.

Is it deer resistant?
Yes, viburnums are generally deer-resistant.

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Pair Red Feather with our other viburnums and large shrubs for a tough, colorful screen or wildlife border.