Here’s how to tell whether you’re looking at a Japanese snowball or a Chinese snowball, and which one is better for your garden.
Comparing Japanese Snowball vs. Chinese Snowball
Key Differences between Japanese Snowball and Chinese Snowball
The Japanese snowball and Chinese snowball are closely related, sharing the genus Viburnum. The most notable differences are in their appearance and hardiness. Japanese snowballs have small, delicate flowers and are slightly more cold-resistant. Even so, Japanese snowballs require additional overwintering support compared to the Chinese snowball. Chinese snowballs have large, showy flowers and can grow significantly taller in some areas. They require more direct sunlight and wind cover.
Japanese Snowball vs. Chinese Snowball: Classification
The Japanese snowball and Chinese snowball are members of Viburnum, a genus of up to 175 similar flowering plants. These blooms used to be classified as honeysuckle, but have since been reclassified from the family Caprifoliaceae to the family Adoxaceae. The Japanese snowball is classified as the species plicatum, which means “pleated.” This is a reference to the leaf shape — another differentiator between the Japanese and Chinese snowball shrubs. The Chinese snowball is classified as the species macrocephalum, meaning “to have a large head.” This is a reference to the size and shape of the Chinese snowball flower clusters, which are noticeably larger than the Japanese snowball.
Japanese Snowball vs. Chinese Snowball: Origin
The Japanese snowball originates in Japan and spans across Taiwan, China, and Korea. These plants have since been imported into North America as ornamental trees, and are particularly popular in New England. The U.S. Forest Service has listed the Japanese snowball as a “local concern” and an invasive species in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. The concern is that this fast-growing plant will overtake naturally occurring plant life and the sterile cultivars could impact pollinators. The Chinese snowball originates in China, naturally spanning across parts of Asia. Chinese snowball plants in North America have been imported and naturalized for landscaping design purposes.
Japanese Snowball vs. Chinese Snowball: Description
The Japanese snowball grows up to 10 feet tall and wide in a vase formation, narrow at the bottom and fanning out as it grows. Flowers are small and delicate, growing in globe-shaped clusters with small white petals. Some Japanese snowball cultivars have flat flower clusters rather than rounded clusters. Leaves are rich green and pleated. The Chinese snowball is similar in overall size and shape, with large globe-shaped flower clusters and petals. These blossoms are significantly larger than those found on the Japanese snowball. Leaves are light green and have an opposite arrangement.
Japanese Snowball vs. Chinese Snowball: Uses
The Japanese snowball is typically used for decorative purposes. However, its invasive nature has been a concern in recent years, particularly in the Eastern United States. Sterile varieties still attract pollinators, yet they have no nectar when they arrive. This issue is particularly concerning for bumblebees as it depletes their limited energy stores. Consider planting other nectar-rich plants around your Japanese snowball to ensure pollinators are fed. The Chinese snowball is also used for decorative purposes in gardens and landscaping. However, it’s not listed as an invasive species or local concern. Consider planting Chinese snowballs if you like the look of these stunning plants.
Japanese Snowball vs. Chinese Snowball: Growth Tips
Plant your Japanese snowballs in USDA Zones 5-8 in a spot with partial sunlight, partial shade. This shrub needs well-draining soil to thrive. Overwinter by adding mulch around the base in the fall and cease watering until the spring. Wrap in burlap in areas with extreme winter conditions. Talk to your local U.S. Forest Service office before planting. Plant Chinese snowballs in USDA Zones 6-9. This plant thrives in well-draining soil and full sunlight. Shield the Chinese snowball from winter winds and cover in colder zones outside the USDA range.
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