Guelder rose

Guelder rose (Viburnum opulus) syn. common guelder rose, snowball tree

The shrub is decorative, but also produces fruits. It grows to a height of up to 4 m and produces rhizomes. The plant blooms in clusters:  flowers are fertile in the centre and sterile on the outside (however they have larger petals) and are of white colour. The plant blooms in May/June. Fruits are red and have a diameter of around 1 cm. They remain on bushes for a long period of time. The plant prefers fertile, clayey and moist soils. It is resistant to low temperatures and grows better in sunny areas.

Fruits are noticeably bitter, but edible. They are rich in vitamins C and P, tannins and  anthocyanins. They are a great raw material for making preserves. Guelder rose is used in folk medicine. It has a calming effect and helps to fight insomnia.