Arrowwood viburnum (Viburnum dentatum)

Arrowwood viburnum

Also known as: Oughish arrowwood

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.

Scientific classification

Species

Arrowwood viburnum (Viburnum dentatum)

Honeysuckles, moschatels and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

1.5 m to 2 m

Plant Height

1.5 m to 2 m

Spread

Green, Yellow, Red, Gold

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Black, Blue

Fruit Color

White

Flower Color

Green, White, Black

Stem Color

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Arrowwood viburnum

Attributes of Arrowwood viburnum

Growth Rate

Exhibiting a moderate growth rate, the Arrowwood viburnum (Viburnum dentatum) transforms vividly each spring. The burst of energy during this season yields increased foliage production, fostering a denser canopy, while extending the plant's overall structural reach. This moderate pace ensures a substantial but manageable growth, enhancing the plant's adaptability and resilience. Comparatively, other seasonal growth rates in this species may be less pronounced.

Distribution of Arrowwood viburnum

Distribution Map

Arrowwood viburnum is a deciduous shrub that comes from the central and eastern USA. It is found on wooded slopes in all states east of Texas. This plant hasn't become established elsewhere as an introduced species and is not invasive. The shrub has some garden appeal and it is grown ornamentally in the USA.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woodland garden

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

There are shrubs which work better for tight formal hedges, but arrowwood viburnum distinguishes itself for loose hedges and screening because it is so vigorous, hardy, and reliable to grow. It also works well as a background for showier plants and flowers.

Symbolism

Delicate and continuous friendship

Name Story

Arrowwood viburnum: This plant is native to regions from New Brunswick to Minnesota, south to Georgia. The name arrowwood is inspired by the Native Americans for using the strong shoots which developed from the roots for the shafts of their arrows.

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Toxicity

Arrowwood viburnum berries are mildly toxic, especially when unripe. They contain polyphenols that cause stomach irritation, resulting in nausea, salivation, stomach pain, diarrhea, and vomiting. Severe cases can lead to electrolyte imbalance or severe dehydration. Keep this plant away from children and cognitively impaired individuals to avoid these hazards.

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Quickly Identify Arrowwood viburnum

Flat-topped clusters of white blossoms measuring 4 inches (10 cm) across in spring.

Distinctive bluish-black drupe fruits, clustered and maturing in late summer to early fall.

Creamy-white flowers with bell-shaped petals and prominent yellow anthers blooming from March to April.

Yellow-green to dark green leaves with coarsely serrated margins changing to vibrant reds in the fall.

Angled twigs with ridges, green to brown buds, and gray mature stems with fissures.

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Care Guide for Arrowwood viburnum

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from moderately moist regions, arrowwood viburnum thrives with soil slightly drying between waterings, ideally every 1-2 weeks. It adapts well to various humidity levels, preferring consistent moisture during its growing season, making it resilient in temperate outdoor climates.

Fertilize: For optimal growth of arrowwood viburnum, fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer, prioritizing high nitrogen during growth phases. Apply quarterly, avoiding over-fertilization to protect roots. Adjust feeding based on growth stages, reducing applications during dormancy for overall health and productivity.

Pruning: Arrowwood viburnum features toothed leaves and white flower clusters. Prune in early spring to enhance air circulation and shape, remove older stems for new growth, and prune post-flowering to retain buds. Regular maintenance boosts health and resistance to pests. Seek local advice for climate specifics.

Propagation: Arrowwood viburnum, a native North American shrub, is valued for its appealing shape and creamy-white flowers. Successful propagation occurs via softwood cuttings from healthy plants, utilizing a rooting hormone in a well-draining medium with consistent moisture and indirect sunlight for optimal root development.

Repotting: Arrowwood viburnum should be repotted every 2-3 years in early spring, using a mid-sized-to-large container with good drainage. After repotting, maintain evenly moist soil without waterlogging to support optimal recovery and health.

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Images of Arrowwood viburnum

Attributes of Arrowwood viburnum

Distribution of Arrowwood viburnum

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Arrowwood viburnum

Care Guide for Arrowwood viburnum

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