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Rusty blackhaw

How to identify Rusty blackhaw (Viburnum rufidulum)

Rusty blackhaw, also known as Blue haw

Rusty blackhaw exhibits a variety of growth forms, typically as a multi-stemmed shrub or occasionally a small tree reaching up to 12 to 15 feet (approximately 3.7 to 4.6 meters) in height. Its leaves are broad and ovate with serrated margins and are distinctively adorned with rusty-brown hairs on their undersides. Buds and stems also share this rusty-hued pubescence. In the spring, rusty blackhaw produces small, creamy-white flowers that cluster into dense, flat-topped cymes, usually 4 to 5 inches (10 to 12.5 centimeters) wide. These give way to bluish-black drupes that persist into the fall.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Shrub

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Rusty blackhaw

1

Oval, glossy leaves with rusty-brown undersides, 4 inches (10 cm) long.

2

Rusty-brown haired stems and buds, 0.2 to 0.4 inches (5 to 10 mm) thick.

3

Creamy-white flowers in 5-inch (12.7 cm) cymes with long stamens.

4

Dark blue, fleshy berries, 3/8 inch (1 cm) long, in clusters.

5

Rugged bark with fine mosaic-like blocky pattern, gray to brown hues.

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Detailed Traits of Rusty blackhaw

Leaf Features

The leaves of rusty blackhaw are oval, glossy, and leathery, measuring 4 inches (10 cm) in length. They are dark green on the upper surface and have rusty brown hairs underneath. The stems also exhibit these hairs. Leaf margins are finely serrated, with tips being rounded or broadly pointed, and bases rounded. These leaves display excellent fall colors, including vivid reds, purples, and oranges.

Leaf Arrangement

Opposite

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Flower Features

The flowers of rusty blackhaw bloom from March to April, featuring rounded cymes that are 5 inches (12.7 cm) wide. Each tiny flower measures 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) across and is characterized by long stamens. These delicate flowers form dense clusters, creating a visually striking display. While individual blooms are small, their collective arrangement and prominent stamens are key identifying features. The flowers' scent enhances their appeal, making them a notable aspect of this plant's springtime appearance.

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Stem Features

The stem of rusty blackhaw is readily identifiable by its reddish-brown twigs, which are covered with a thin light gray coating. It also features rusty brown hairs along the stem. The stems are moderately thick, measuring approximately 0.2 to 0.4 inches (5 to 10 mm) in diameter. The branching pattern is typically upright and slightly spreading. These characteristics make the stem a distinctive feature for identifying rusty blackhaw.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of rusty blackhaw manifests as clusters of small, oval-shaped berries, each measuring roughly 3/8 inch (about 1 cm) in length. These berries boast a rich, dark blue hue when they reach maturity in the months of September to October. The fleshy texture of the fruits adds to their distinct appearance, and they often attract various birds and wildlife due to their vibrant coloration and accessibility on the plant.

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American Cranberry Bush vs. Rusty blackhaw: What's The Difference?
The guelder-rose (*Viburnum opulus*) is a large deciduous shrub famous for its bushy appearance, snowball-shaped flowers, and clusters of bright red berries. Its fruits are very acidic, so they are usually relegated to jams. Due to the low toxicity of the fruit, large amounts of consumption may cause discomfort. The guelder-rose is one of american Cranberry Bush's national symbols and the main theme of the famous Russian song "Kalinka".
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Laurustinus (*Viburnum tinus*) is a flowering shrub native to the Mediterranean region. It is cultivated as an ornamental plant, and it often adorns winter gardens. When little else is growing during cold days of winter, laurustinus produces numerous clusters of tiny white flowers.
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Japanese snowball is a popular deciduous ornamental shrub that can grow up to heights of 3 m tall. The japanese snowball blooms in the spring with clumps of white flowers that resemble snowballs and provides attractive foliage throughout the summer and fall.
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Sweet viburnum vs. Rusty blackhaw: What's The Difference?
Sweet viburnum (Viburnum odoratissimum) is a small tree that is native to Asia, but widely cultivated throughout the globe as an ornamental tree in gardens. This species is considered easy to grow in warm climates but will become damaged in frosty, cold climates.
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Arrowwood viburnum (*Viburnum dentatum*) is a small perennial woody shrub native to the eastern United States and Canada. This shrub is not typically used for ornamental purposes aside from shrub hedges. It has the potential to attract songbirds and white flies.
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Key Facts About Rusty blackhaw

Attributes of Rusty blackhaw
Spread
3 m to 6 m
Leaf Color
Green
Yellow
Gold
Flower Size
2.5 cm
Flower Color
White
Cream
Fruit Color
Blue
Stem Color
Silver
Red
Brown
Gray
Burgundy
Leaf type
Deciduous
The Toxicity of Rusty blackhaw
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Scientific Classification of Rusty blackhaw

Family
Moschatel
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Species
Rusty blackhaw (Viburnum rufidulum)
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Distribution Map of Rusty blackhaw

Rusty blackhaw is primarily native to the south-central and southeastern regions of the North American continent, with a presence in subtropical areas. The species has been introduced and cultivated beyond its original range, resulting in a broader distribution that extends to temperate zones across the continent.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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