Blackhaw Viburnum is a native, deciduous, multi-stemmed shrub or small tree that offers utility, aesthetics, and adaptability to any landscape. It has the ability to grow in full sun to full shade, in moist or dry soils, and is resistant to drought (once established) and juglone toxicity. This plant can be left in its wild form, suckering vertically from the base to form an upright shrub reaching about 15' tall and 12' wide at maturity, or it can easily be pruned and maintained as a small tree. The tree form resembles a crabapple or hawthorn in its overall shape, and can reach heights of around 20'. It makes an excellent specimen tree, as well as a tough, attractive understory tree. The burgundy fall color, sometimes with purple and orange, makes it a great alternative to the non-native Burning Bush. It is quite durable and rarely bothered by pests or diseases.
The creamy white flowers of Blackhaw Viburnum begin blooming as the leaves are still expanding in late spring, giving it a very fresh, clean look. Plants will be more floriferous in sunnier conditions. The flat-topped clusters of flowers attract many pollinators which seek their abundant nectar. They mature into blue-black, edible, olive-shaped fruits (drupes) which are commonly made into preserves and delicious jellies, but can also be eaten raw (just spit out the stones). Many birds eat the fruits during fall migration, as well as squirrels and chipmunks. Viburnums are host to at least 104 species* of Lepidoptera, including the Rose Hooktip Moth, Hummingbird Clearwing Moth, Henry’s Elfin, and the adorable Pink Prominent Moth.
Planting at least two separate individuals of the same species of Viburnum helps with cross-pollination and can result in heavier fruit production.
Sources:
Native Trees, Shrubs, & Vines by William Cullina
Manual of Woody Landscape Plants by Michael A. Dirr
*Midwestern Native Shrubs and Trees by Charlotte Adelman & Bernard L. Schwartz
Peterson Field Guide to Edible Wild Plants Eastern/C
