Viburnum lentago (Nannyberry)

Viburnum lentago (Nannyberry) is a large, suckering, deciduous shrub or single- or multi-stemmed small tree noted for its eye-catching flower clusters, shiny foliage, fall color, and fruit display. In spring, masses of flat-topped creamy-white flower clusters, 4.5 in. wide (11 cm), emerge from large vase-shaped buds and are elegantly held above the foliage. Non-fragrant, they are loved by butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. The blooms give way to pendulous clusters of bluish-black berries with bright red stalks in fall. Showy when viewed up close or from a short distance, they often persist into winter and are quite attractive to birds and wildlife. Tasty, the fruits can be eaten fresh from the shrub or used to make jams and preserves. The handsome foliage of ovate, finely toothed, glossy dark green leaves turns attractive shades of yellow, red, and purple in fall. A very rewarding shrub that is not only good-looking but also durable and pest free.

• Grows at a moderate rate, with an upright habit but becomes more open at maturity with its slender, arching branches. Up to 10-20 ft. tall (300-600 cm) and 6-12 ft. wide (180-360 cm). It may be grown as a small tree up to 30 ft. high (9 m). Remove root suckers to control their spread unless naturalization is desired.
• A full sun or part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Adaptable to a wide range of soil textures, moisture levels, and soil pH. Nannyberry tolerates heat and drought and performs well in the urban landscape.
• Perfect as a specimen plant or in shrub borders, striking hedges and screens, and foundation plantings. Great for naturalizing.
• Attractive to birds and butterflies.
• Low maintenance, this plant has no serious insect or disease problems. Sometimes it develops mildew in shady areas.
• Prune as required immediately after flowering (flower buds form in summer for the following year).
• Native to eastern North America.