Blackhaw Viburnum (Viburnum prunifolium)

From April to May, broad clusters of strongly fragrant white flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. These blooms are followed by small fruits that ripen from September – October through shades of green, pink, red, and finally blue-black in fall. The ripe fruit is edible and can be eaten fresh or used in jams and preserves, while birds, squirrels, and other wildlife also rely on it as a seasonal food source. Glossy green foliage provides summer interest before turning deep red to purple in fall.

Blackhaw performs best in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, but it is notably adaptable. It tolerates clay, loam, sandy, and rocky soils, a wide range of soil pH, occasional dry periods, urban conditions, compaction, pollution, and Black Walnut. Although it will grow in deeper shade, flowering and fruit production are best with some direct sunlight. Once established, Blackhaw is drought tolerant and requires relatively little maintenance. Because next year’s flower buds form during the previous growing season, prune immediately after flowering if shaping is needed.