Mapleleaf Viburnum
Viburnum acerifolium
Courtesy Sally and Andy Wasowski, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Summary
Maple leaf viburnum is more shade tolerant than most viburnum species, preferring part shade in well-drained, acidic soil. It spreads readily to form colonies by suckering, but can be pruned after flowering to maintain its shape. It’s found as an understory shrub in nature, so it’s a great addition to a wooded area, shaded foundation bed, or bird garden. It’s one of the few locally native shrubs that can thrive in dry woods, and isn’t bothered by juglone, heavy shade or drought.
Gardeners take note: Viburnums fruit best when they can be cross-pollinated by a second individual of the same species. (Plants don’t have to be grown side-by-side; pollinators should find them anywhere in the yard.)
More Details
FAMILY
Adoxaceae (Muskroot)
BLOOM TIME
June
FLOWER
White
MATURE SIZE
5 -6 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENT
Sun to shade
SOIL CONDITIONS
Dry to moist
NATIVE STATUS
PA Native
Ecosystem Connections
Mapleleaf viburnum is a host plant for the spring azure butterfly. The large clusters of creamy white flowers occur late spring to summer and are attractive to bees and butterflies. These are followed by clusters of berry-like drupes that have high value as a food source for birds such as American robin, cedar waxwing, and several other species. Its low-growing habit provides good nesting and escape cover for birds and small mammals.