Viburnum prunifolium

Blackhaw Viburnum

Blackhaw is a large, upright, multi-stemmed, densely twiggy deciduous shrub that can be pruned to grow as a small tree. Creamy white flowers in flat-topped clusters to 4.5" across appear in spring. Flowers provide nectar for butterflies, native bees and other pollinators. Flowers give way to blue-black, berry-like fruits, which are a good source of food for birds and wildlife in fall and early winter. This handsome plant has glossy dark green leaves changing to shades of red and purple in fall.

Benefits:

Flowers provide nectar for butterflies and other pollinators

Plants provide excellent nesting sites and cover for birds

Red-purple foliage contrasts with blue-black fruit in the fall

Berries are a great source of food for birds and other wildlife in fall

Grows well in dry soil

Homeowner Growing and Maintenance Tips

Easy to grow in full sun or part shade.

Plant in well-drained, dry to average soil. Tolerates drought.

Prune immediately after flowering since flower buds form in summer for the following year.

Can be grown as a large, multi-stemmed shrub or small tree.

Height 10-12 Feet

Spread 6-8 Feet

Native Range Woods, thickets, and fencerows; Connecticut to Wisconsin and Iowa south to Kansas, Texas and Georgia.

Native Trivia Blackhaw has been in cultivation as an ornamental plant since 1727. The common name is said to refer to the similarity of this plant to hawthorns (sometimes commonly called red haws), though hawthorns are in a different family. Fruits are edible and may be eaten off the bush when ripe or used in jams and preserves.

USDA Hardiness Zone 3-9

"Blackhaw provides ample cover and food for birds and their friends."

Characteristics & Attributes

Plan Sub Group • Medium to Tall Shrubs	Exposure • Sun • Filtered Shade	Soil Moisture Preference • Dry • Average	Attracts Wildlife • Mammals • Butterflies • Songbirds
Bloom Time • Late Spring / Early Summer	Habitat Collection • Dry Shade • Butterfly • Songbird	Foliage Color • Dark Green	Uses • Drought tolerant