Rusty Blackhaw Viburnum
By Photo by David J. Stang - source: David Stang. First published at ZipcodeZoo.com, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=61099996
By Jay Sturner from USA - Rusty Blackhaw (Viburnum rufidulum), CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=50867964
Scientific Name: Viburnum rufidulum
Common Names: Rusty Blackhaw, Southern Blackhaw
Native to: Southeastern and south-central United States (Texas)
Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Height: 10–30 feet (usually no more than 20 feet here)
Width: 8–15 feet
Winter Look: Deciduous; bare branches with rust-colored buds
Seasonal Interest: Clusters of white flowers in spring, followed by blue-black berries in fall; reddish-purple fall foliage
Drought Tolerance: Moderate to high
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soils; tolerates clay, loam, limestone, and sandy soils
pH Range: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 5–9
Deer Resistance: Moderate; foliage may experience some browsing
Attracts: Pollinators (bees, butterflies), birds (consume berries)
Potential Issues: None that I'm aware of
Notes: Rusty Blackhaw Viburnum is a low-maintenance tree or shrub ideal for naturalized landscapes, hedges, or specimen planting. Its berries and foliage add seasonal interest and provide excellent wildlife value. Prune to shape or control size as needed.