Viburnum, Genus, rufidulum, Species,
- Genus & species
rusty blackhaw
South-central and southeastern United States
Overview
Viburnum rufidulum is a deciduous large shrub or small tree in the Viburnaceae, typically 10-25 feet (3-7.6 m) tall and 8-15 feet (2.4-4.6 m) wide, occasionally taller in the wild. The glossy, leathery leaves are oval, 1.5-4 inches (4-10 cm) long, with finely toothed edges, dark green above and paler below; the leaf stalks and winter buds are coated in rust-colored hairs that give the plant its common name. In mid- to late spring it bears flat-topped clusters (cymes) of small white flowers 3-5 inches (8-13 cm) across. These are followed in late summer by drooping clusters of oval, blue-black drupes about 0.5 inch (13 mm) long, each with a waxy bloom, which are eaten by birds and other wildlife. In autumn the foliage turns shades of red to purple-red. The bark breaks into small, blocky plates resembling alligator hide on older trunks. It grows in well-drained upland woods, slopes, and fencerows, tolerating drought, heat, and a range of soils once established. Growth is slow, and the species can sucker to form thickets where stems are not removed.
Native Range
Native to the south-central and southeastern United States, from Virginia and Kansas south to Texas and Florida. It grows in dry upland woods, rocky slopes, glades, and along fencerows and woodland edges.Suggested Uses
Viburnum rufidulum is used as a small specimen tree, in shrub borders, woodland edges, and native or wildlife plantings across the southern United States. Its spring flowers, blue-black fruit, and red autumn color give multiple seasons of interest, and the fruit draws birds. It suits naturalized areas and dry, sunny sites where many shrubs grow poorly.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height10' - 25'
Width/Spread8' - 15'
Bloom Information
Flat clusters of white flowers open in mid- to late spring, usually April to May, as or just after the leaves expand. Bloom lasts about two to three weeks. The flowers are followed by green fruit that ripens to blue-black by late summer.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
dark greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
