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Blackhaw ViburnumViburnum prunifolium
A large tree or multi-stemmed shrub with impressive dark green foliage in summer months changing in the autumn to a purple, rich red burgundy color which is quite showy. Pretty flowers are creamy white and bloom in early May. Flower blooms are followed by a droopy blue-black edible fruit. Grows 12'-15' high with and 8'-12' spread. Adapts to many soils. Does well in sun or shade. Very hardy and easy to grow.
Hardiness Zones
The blackhaw viburnum can be expected to grow in Hardiness Zones 3–9. View Map
Tree Type
Mature Size
The blackhaw viburnum grows to a height of 12–15' and a spread of 8–10' at maturity.
Growth Rate
This shrub grows at a slow to medium rate, with height increases of anywhere from less than 12" to 24" per year.
Sun Preference
Full sun and partial shade are best for this shrub, meaning it prefers a minimum of 4 hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight each day.
Soil Preference
The blackhaw viburnum grows in acidic, alkaline, loamy, moist, rich, sandy, silty loam and well-drained soils. It also tolerates drought.
Attributes
This shrub:
- Produces creamy white flowers in flat-topped clusters that are 2–4" in diameter and bloom in April and May.
- Yields edible, oval drupes measuring up to ½" long. They appear after the flowers, beginning pinkish or rose-colored and turning bluish-black at maturity.
- Features impressive dark green leaves 1½–3½" in length that provide showy fall color, turning purple and rich red-burgundy.
- Develops a dense, twiggy habit, making it a great hedge plant.
- Transplants well.
- Can be grown as a small tree or multi-stemmed shrub.
- Grows in an irregular, rounded shape.
Wildlife Value
The fruit serves as food for various birds and wildlife.
History/Lore
The blackhaw viburnum was introduced in 1727. The root bark has been used medicinally.