Lower Risk

Viburnum japonicum (Japanese Viburnum)

(Cornus kousa subsp. kousa)

The name of this plant is disputed, with some sources indicating Viburnum japonicum is the accepted name, while others indicate Cornus kousa subsp. kousa is the accepted name. This assessment has been conducted under then name V. japonicum. This plant is a perennial shrub native to Taiwan and Japan. It has been in the ornamental trade in Australia since 1843 and has not become naturalised in that time. Although not naturalised currently, there is a moderate level of climate similarity between its native range and NSW. The species has not been reported as being invasive anywhere in the world. However, some of its close relatives such as V. dilatatum, V. plicatum and V. sieboldii are considered invasive in the Mid-Atlantic region of USA. It reproduces by seed which are dispersed by birds. Japanese Vibrunum produces sweetly fraganced white flowers.