Photographs: the Gearagh, Co. Cork

Guelder-rose Viburnum opulus Caor chon Family: Caprifoliaceae Flowering: May-July, fruiting: September-October. Deciduous shrub. Slightly scented white flowers in flat umbels, the inner flowers fertile, the outer sterile. The round berries are toxic in large quantities. Leaves are palmately-lobed, toothed and opposite. The buds are scaly. Height To 4m Prefers damp habitats but also found on drier ground in woods, scrubland and hedgerows. Native, but frequently planted in gardens and hedges.

Guelder-rose, Viburnum opulus, Caor chon