Arrowwood Viburnum
Viburnum dentatumArrowwood Viburnum is a native, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub prized for its adaptability, dense habit, and multi-season appeal. In late spring to early summer, it produces flat-topped clusters of creamy white flowers that attract pollinators and offer a delicate fragrance. These blooms are followed by small, bluish-black berries in late summer to fall, which are a vital food source for songbirds.
The foliage is dark green, glossy, and coarsely toothed, turning shades of yellow, orange, and red in autumn for a vibrant seasonal display. Its upright, arching branches and suckering growth habit make it well-suited for naturalizing, erosion control, or forming privacy screens and informal hedges. The bark and stems are strong and were historically used by Indigenous peoples to make arrow shafts, hence the name “Arrowwood.”
Extremely adaptable and low-maintenance, Arrowwood Viburnum tolerates a wide range of soil conditions including clay, wet, or dry sites. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and is notably cold-hardy, making it an excellent choice for northern landscapes. Its resistance to pests, moderate deer tolerance, and value to wildlife make it a popular and ecologically beneficial landscape plant.
Care Instructions:
Site Selection: Choose a site with full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system.
Pruning: Prune immediately after flowering if shaping is needed.
Pest & Disease Control: This shrub is generally pest and disease resistant.
Soil Tips: Arrowwood Viburnum is highly adaptable and will grow in clay, loam, or sandy soils, including wet areas. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH. A layer of mulch helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.