blackhaw viburnum

Plant Type

Small Tree/Large Shrub (10-25 ft)

Life Cycle

Perennial

Typical Size

12-15 ft. tall
6-12 ft. wide

Tolerant of

Drought

Inolerant of

Poorly Drained Soil

Propagation

By seed

Plant Propagation Notes

Collect seed once fruit has darkened and store at 41 degrees with the pulp still on.

Plant Planting Notes

Provide 12′ spacing.

Plants/Diseases

No significant disease or pest issues.

Wildlife Benefits

Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects, Host plant for butterfly larvae, Fruit/seeds for birds

Leaves

The species name “prunifolium” refers to the leaf shape of this Viburnum resembling Prunus, or cherry, leaves. Opposite.

Flowers

Usually white, but sometimes pink, fragrant flowers with 4-5 petals in clusters. Fragrant.

Fruit

Drupes that transition from green/yellow to red/pink to blue/black at maturity.

Bark

Younger twigs are smooth and gray-brown, maturing to gray-black with rough, square bark plates.

Toxicity

No known toxicity.

Edibility

Fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or used in jams and preserves.

USDA Hardiness Zones

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Light Exposure

Full Sun, Part Sun/Shade

Soil Moisture

Medium, Moist

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Soil pH

Acidic (less than 6.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0), Basic (greater than 8.0)

Native in South Carolina?

Yes

Plant Native Habitat

Bottomland and riparian forests, stream banks, mesic upland forests.

Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)

Secure (G5)

Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)

Not Listed

Distribution Notes

Common throughout SC