Blackhaw Viburnum

Blackhaw Viburnum (Viburnum prunifolium)

Blackhaw Viburnum is a versatile and durable deciduous shrub native to North America. Known for its attractive form and adaptability to a variety of landscape conditions, it serves both ornamental and ecological purposes. With its creamy white flowers, dark blue berries, and striking fall foliage, Blackhaw Viburnum is a favorite among gardeners and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Key Features:

• Flowers: Clusters of creamy white flowers bloom profusely in spring, providing a nectar source for pollinators.
• Fruit: Produces edible dark blue to black berries in the fall that are popular with birds and wildlife.
• Foliage: Leaves turn a rich red to purple in autumn, offering stunning seasonal color.

Uses:

• Ideal for use in hedgerows, naturalized areas, or as a focal point in residential landscapes.
• Its berries can be used to make preserves and jellies.

Growth Requirements:

• Adaptable to a wide range of soil types but prefers well-drained, loamy soils.
• Thrives in both full sun and partial shade.
• Hardy in USDA Zones 3-9.

Care Tips:

• Requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for low-maintenance landscapes.
• Pruning is rarely needed but can be done after flowering to shape the plant or maintain a smaller size.

Interesting Fact:

• Blackhaw Viburnum’s bark has been historically used in folk medicine for its antispasmodic and sedative properties.