Rusty Blackhaw

(Viburnum rufidulum)

Rusty Blackhaw (Viburnum rufidulum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Viburnum rufidulum, commonly known as Rusty Blackhaw, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the understory of woodlands, forest edges, and stream banks in the South Central and Southeastern USA. It typically grows to a height of 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters) with a similar spread, featuring a rounded form with arching branches. The leaves are ovate to oblong with a glossy dark green color, turning to a striking display of purple to reddish-purple in the fall. Rusty Blackhaw blooms in April to May with showy clusters of creamy white flowers, each cluster up to six inches wide. The bisexual flowers are fragrant and attract pollinators. By mid to late summer, the plant produces edible fruits that are purple or dark blue, glaucous, and ellipsoid, resembling drupes that taste like raisins and are favored by birds.

Rusty Blackhaw is valued for its ornamental features, including its attractive flowers, vibrant fall foliage, and wildlife-friendly fruits. It is used in urban planting, border planting, and as a naturalizing element in gardens. This species is adaptable to a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained, and it can tolerate both full sun and part shade. While it is low-maintenance, occasional pruning may be necessary to maintain its shape. It is not known for having aggressive roots or being particularly susceptible to diseases, making it a reliable choice for gardeners. However, it is not tolerant of prolonged drought conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
  • Height: 10-20 feet
  • Width: 10-20 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Cream, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, 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, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Understory of woodlands, forest edges, and stream banks in the South Central and Southeastern USA

Other Names

Common Names: Blue Haw , Rusty Black Haw , Rusty Nanny-Berry , Southern Black Haw , Rusty Viburnum , Southern Blackhaw

Scientific Names: Viburnum rufidulum , Viburnum prunifolium var. ferrugineum , Viburnum rufotomentosum , Viburnum rufidulum var. floridanum , Viburnum rufidulum var. margarettae , Viburnum rufidulum var. margarettiae , Viburnum rufidulum var. margarettii

GBIF Accepted Name: Viburnum rufidulum Raf.