Nannyberry (Viburnum lentago)

Nannyberry

Also known as: Sweet viburnum, Wild raisin, Blackhaw, Nanny Plum

This large bush, the nannyberry, is known for its lush green foliage which turns red in the fall. It grows interesting, uniquely flavored edible berry which looks a bit wrinkled when ripe. The nannyberry, or Viburnum lentago is sometimes called the sheepberry because its berries are said to have the fragrance of wet sheep’s wool when overripe.

Scientific classification

Species

Nannyberry (Viburnum lentago)

Honeysuckles, moschatels and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

5 mm to 6 mm

Flower Size

Black, Blue, Yellow, Gold, Pink

Fruit Color

White, Cream

Flower Color

Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Nannyberry

Attributes of Nannyberry

Growth Rate

As a slow-growing species, nannyberry experiences gradual developmental progression during its active growth seasons of spring and summer. This relaxed growth rate promotes robustness and resilience, enabling complex leaf arrangement and resource distribution. It may initially appear stagnant, but close inspection reveals a meticulous, steady increase in foliage, height, and blossoming patterns. Nannyberry's slow growth results in dense, healthy clusters of leaves providing a deep-green canopy. The slower pace also allows the plant ample time to gear up for flowering, a spectacle seen in its mature years.

Culture

Garden Use

Nannyberry is a large shrub or a small tree that provides a showy display of ornamental features throughout the seasons - from glossy dark green foliage to fragrant white blooms to red-to-purple berry clusters. It can be used to create low-maintenance flowering hedges and screens. Because of its scented flowers and berries, it makes a great addition to a native wildlife garden.

Symbolism

Innocence, purity, and calmness

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Toxicity

Nannyberry berries are mildly toxic, especially when unripe. They contain polyphenols and salicin, causing nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested. Keep away from children and those sensitive to aspirin.

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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.

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Care Guide for Nannyberry

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Thriving in woodlands, nannyberry prefers moderate moisture and consistent soil moisture, requiring weekly watering. It's moderately drought-tolerant once established. Grown outdoors, it benefits from natural rainfall. As a deciduous plant, water needs decrease during dormancy when leaves are shed.

Fertilize: For optimal growth and fruiting in nannyberry, use balanced or high-nitrogen fertilizers every 4-6 weeks in early spring, applying about 2 pounds of 10-10-10 per 100 square feet. Avoid fertilizing during dormancy and ensure thorough watering post-application to prevent root burn.

Pruning: Nannyberry features creamy white flowers and blue-black fruit. Prune in early spring by removing dead or damaged wood to enhance air circulation and sunlight exposure. Thinning and shaping support vigorous growth, improve ornamental value, boost berry production, and maintain vitality against pests.

Propagation: The resilient shrub nannyberry is ideal for ornamental and restoration use. Propagate via semi-hardwood cuttings in mid-summer with rooting hormone for better success. Maintain humidity for thriving cuttings and acclimatize rooted plants before final transplanting.

Repotting: Repot your large, bushy nannyberry every 2-3 years in early spring. Use a spacious container with well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Nannyberry's resilience demands minimal post-repotting care, making it suitable for gardeners of all levels.

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Images of Nannyberry

Attributes of Nannyberry

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Nannyberry

Care Guide for Nannyberry

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