An evergreen shrub growing normally up to 3 metres. Noted for its eye-catching fragrant flower clusters that appear over winter and colourful metallic blue berries. Viburnum tinus is native to much of North Africa and Europe, including Portugal. It is drought and heat tolerant providing there is sufficient depth of soil and a sheltered position (such as built up urban areas), otherwise this is a plant that usually grows naturally in association with other larger trees that will provide some shade and shelter - so this describes many gardens.

Viburnum tinus can be used for hedging and is good habitat for all wildlife, providing cover, fruit and flowers. This is a useful addition to mixed native planting, in combination with Pistacia, Myrtle, Phillyrea and Olive where it can take advantage of the shelter and microclimate offered by the other species. Widely used in herbal remedies as a tea.