Blackhaw

(Viburnum prunifolium)

Blackhaw (Viburnum prunifolium)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Viburnum prunifolium, commonly known as Blackhaw, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to woodland margins, stream banks, and open forests in the Central and Eastern United States. It exhibits a variable growth habit, typically reaching 2–9 meters (7–30 ft) in height with a short, crooked trunk and stout, spreading branches. In the northern parts of its range, it tends to be more shrub-like, while in the southern areas, it often grows as a small tree. The bark is reddish-brown and becomes very rough with age. Branchlets start red, turn green, and finally darken to brown tinged with red. The creamy white flowers, about 9 mm in diameter, bloom in spring and are modestly showy. Blackhaw is valued for its ornamental features, including good fall color with leaves turning purple to red, and for its blue-black berries that provide food for birds in early winter.

Blackhaw is appreciated in cultivation for its adaptability, serving as a border planting, specimen, or naturalized in woodland gardens. It is relatively low-maintenance, tolerating a range of soil types, though it prefers medium to slow-draining soils. It can thrive in full sun to part shade and requires medium amounts of water. While it has few serious pest or disease problems, it can suffer from leaf spot and canker. The plant also has a history of medicinal use, with its bark being used in traditional remedies.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
  • Height: 12-15 feet
  • Width: 6-12 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Hedges, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Woodland margins, stream banks, and open forests

Other Names

Common Names: Black Haw , Blackhaw Viburnum , Sweet Haw , Stag Bush

Scientific Names: Viburnum prunifolium , Viburnum prunifolium var. globosum , Viburnum pyrifolium , Viburnum prunifolium var. bushii , Viburnum bushii , Viburnum ferrugineum , Viburnum prunifolium subsp. globosum , Viburnum prunifolium var. prunifolium , Viburnum prunifolium subsp. bushii

GBIF Accepted Name: Viburnum prunifolium L.