Northern Arrowwood

(Viburnum recognitum)

Northern Arrowwood (Viburnum recognitum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Viburnum recognitum, commonly known as Northern Arrowwood, is a deciduous shrub native to stream banks, floodplains, and moist forest understories in eastern Canada and the central and eastern United States. It typically grows to a height of 6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters) and a similar width, with a rounded form and multiple stems. The shrub is notable for its clusters of small, white, showy flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer, followed by bluish-black berries that attract birds and other wildlife. The leaves are glossy and have a smooth margin, which is a key identification feature.

Northern Arrowwood is valued for its adaptability to various soil conditions and its ability to thrive in both part shade and full sun. It is often used for naturalizing in wild gardens, as a border planting, or for erosion control along stream banks due to its fibrous root system. While it is generally easy to maintain, it can be susceptible to leaf spot diseases and viburnum leaf beetle. Gardeners should monitor for pests and provide good air circulation to minimize disease risks. This species is not known for aggressive roots or significant invasiveness issues.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

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

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Hedges, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to stream banks, floodplains, and moist forest understories in eastern Canada and the central and eastern United States

Other Names

Common Names: Southern Arrowwood, Smooth Arrow-Wood, Viorne Litigieuse

Scientific Names: , Viburnum recognitum, Viburnum dentatum var. lucidum, Viburnum ashei, Viburnum dentatum subsp. ashei, Viburnum dentatum var. ashei,

GBIF Accepted Name: Viburnum recognitum Fernald