Rusty blackhaw (Viburnum rufidulum)

Rusty blackhaw

Also known as: Blue haw

Rusty blackhaw (Viburnum rufidulum) is a plant species native to the eastern and central United States. Rusty blackhaw flowers in spring with small white blossoms that mature into blue drupes in the fall. This species is often planted in gardens.

Scientific classification

Species

Rusty blackhaw (Viburnum rufidulum)

Honeysuckles, moschatels and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

3 m to 6 m

Plant Height

3 m to 6 m

Spread

Green, Yellow, Gold

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Blue

Fruit Color

White, Cream

Flower Color

Silver, Red, Brown, Gray, Burgundy

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Rusty blackhaw

Distribution of Rusty blackhaw

Distribution Map

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

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Moist woods and thickets, sides of streams, hillsides, roadsides, woodland margins, clearings, dry upland woods

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Innocence, purity, and calmness

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Toxicity

Rusty blackhaw berries are mildly toxic, especially when unripe. They contain high levels of polyphenols which can irritate the stomach, causing nausea, salivation, stomach pain, diarrhea, and vomiting if ingested. Keep them away from children and cognitively impaired people to prevent severe discomfort and potential hospitalization.

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Quickly Identify Rusty blackhaw

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

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

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

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

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

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Care Guide for Rusty blackhaw

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Rusty blackhaw thrives in moderate moisture and tolerates short droughts, reflecting its woodland origin. Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing slight soil drying, and use mulch to retain moisture during its active growing season.

Fertilize: Fertilize rusty blackhaw with balanced or high-nitrogen fertilizers once yearly in early spring at 2-4 pounds per 100 square feet. Avoid over-fertilization, and adjust frequency as rusty blackhaw matures. Always water thoroughly after applying fertilizer for effective nutrient absorption.

Pruning: Rusty blackhaw, known for its coarse leaves and rusty hair-covered undersides, should be pruned in late spring after blooming. Focus on removing dead or diseased branches and lightly trim for shape. This promotes airflow, health, and tidiness, while heavy pruning should be avoided to reduce stress.

Propagation: Rusty blackhaw is a deciduous shrub with creamy-white flowers and dark berries. Propagate using softwood cuttings in early summer from healthy shoots, applying rooting hormone in well-draining mix. Maintain consistently moist soil and indirect light. Acclimate established roots to outdoor conditions prior to planting.

Repotting: Repot rusty blackhaw in early spring before new growth, every 2-3 years. Select a container slightly larger than the root ball with good drainage. Post-repotting, keep the soil moist and provide partial shade to help rusty blackhaw regain vigor.

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Images of Rusty blackhaw

Distribution of Rusty blackhaw

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Rusty blackhaw

Care Guide for Rusty blackhaw

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