Viburnum prunifolium

Attractive larger viburnum that can be trained as a tree

The handsome shape and size of the blackhaw viburnum distinguish it from its shrubbier viburnum cousins. It can be grown as a multistemmed shrub or a rounded tree since it attains heights of 12' to 15' or can even reach 20' to 30' over a 30-year period. The small, finely toothed oval leaves are similar to the leaves of cherry trees, which accounts for its scientific name. The flowers are white with yellow stamens, giving them a creamy appearance. They are borne in clusters 4" in diameter in May; unfortunately, they are not highly fragrant. The pink fruit turns black as it matures in autumn; this edible fruit can be used for preserves or jam if you can beat the birds. Attractive fall foliage ranges in color from purple to red. Plant blackhaw viburnum in the shrub border or as a specimen plant.