V. rhytidophyllum is a vigorous, erect, evergreen shrub with deeply-veined, oblong, glossy, dark green leaves and dense, domed clusters of creamy-white flowers in late spring followed by red fruit that ripens to glossy black.Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Foliage may die back (sometimes to the ground) in sub-zero winter temperatures, so in the St. Louis area, it is best to plant this shrub in a protected location shielded from winter winds. If shrub loses good form or needs revitalization, prune to the ground. Otherwise, prune immediately after flowering since flower buds form in summer for the following year.
