Blackhaw

Viburnum prunifolium image of Blackhaw tree, leaves, and fruit

Blackhaw is a small understory tree probably found in every county in Missouri. It occurs in rocky woods and along rocky stream banks. Its white flowers, scarlet fall foliage and blue-black berries make blackhaw excellent for landscaping. It is also useful for wildlife food and cover and windbreaks.

Identifying Characteristics

Height
30 ft
Spread
20 ft
Leaves
opposite, simple, 1 1/2" - 3" long; elliptical, finely toothed; shiny green
Flowers
small white flowers in flat clusters 2" - 4" wide
Fruit
l/2" long, elliptical, dark blue-black berry; on long stalks
Bark
gray, furrowed into rectangular plates
Associated species
American plum, red mulberry, persimmon, sumac
Ideal site conditions
average soil, full sun
Value to man
landscaping windbreaks
Value to wildlife
food, cover
Growth Rate
slow
Range
range