How to identify Nannyberry (Viburnum lentago)

How to identify Nannyberry (Viburnum lentago)

Nannyberry, also known as Sweet viburnum, Wild raisin, Blackhaw, Nanny Plum

Nannyberry presents as a versatile shrub or diminutive tree, flourishing particularly in moist, nutrient-rich soils. It exhibits a strong tendency to form colonies through suckering. In the spring, it boasts creamy white floral clusters that are visually striking, while autumn ushers in a display of edible berries, transitioning in color from green to a deep purple-black. Its foliage, too, contributes to its seasonal appeal with a metamorphosis into hues of orange and red before leaf fall. Typically reaching heights of up to 16 feet (almost 5 meters), nannyberry adapts well to both sun-dappled and shaded environments.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Shrub

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Nannyberry

Creamy white flowers in flat-topped cymes, 3-4 inches (7.6-10.2 cm) across.

Multicolored fruit clusters transitioning from green to deep blue-black at maturity.

Dark green glossy leaves, 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long with serrated margins.

Smooth brown stems, 0.2-0.5 inches (0.5-1.2 cm) in diameter, displaying upright branching.

Dark gray to black trunk bark in small squared blocks, developing furrows with age.

Detailed Traits of Nannyberry

Leaf Features

The leaves of nannyberry are 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long and 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) wide. They are glossy and dark green with new growth appearing in a yellow-green hue. In fall, the leaves transition to vibrant shades of orange to purplish-red. The leaves have a smooth texture and an oval to elliptical shape with a finely serrated margin. Vein patterns are prominent, with a central vein and lateral veins extending towards the edges.

Leaf Shape

Ovate ,

Elliptic ,

Circular

Leaf Arrangement

Opposite

Leaf Apex

Acuminate

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

The flowers of nannyberry are characterized by their creamy white color, arranged in flat-topped cymes measuring 3 to 4 inches (7.6 to 10.2 cm) across. Each individual flower is 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) wide, featuring five petals and prominent long stamens. These flowers typically emit a mild fragrance and bloom in late spring. Their uniform structure and delicate, creamy hue make them distinctive and easily recognizable during their blooming period.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stem of nannyberry is characterized by its brown and smooth texture, contributing to its distinct appearance. Young branches exhibit similar smoothness and generally maintain the brown coloration. The stems are relatively thin, typically measuring about 0.2 to 0.5 inches (0.5 to 1.2 cm) in diameter. They display a somewhat upright branching pattern, which is noticeable in the plant's overall structure. This smooth and brown feature of the stems is a key identification trait for nannyberry.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of nannyberry is a drupe, showcasing a diverse palette as it matures. Initially, the fruits present as small, roughly 1/2 inch (about 1.3 cm) drupes in a light green hue. As they age, they transition through shades of pale yellow and red-pink, coalescing in clusters. These clusters are a unique characteristic, as they display the varied color stages simultaneously. This multicolored display gradually converges to a deep blue-black tone at full maturity. The textured surface of the fruit coats a hard stone inside, typical for fruits of the drupe family.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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