The taxonomic status of the western Himalayan Viburnum foetens (Caprifoliaceae) is discussed and it is concluded that this is best regarded as a glabrous form of the more widespread V. grandiflorum. The appropriate new combination is made and a full description of the taxon is provided. The colour plate depicts a distinctive variant which is growing at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew; this is distinguished by the clonal name ‘Desmond Clarke’.