Arrowwood Viburnum

Arrowwood viburnum (Viburnum dentatum) is a very common, naturally occurring shrub in Frederick County, often found in moist, well drained sites throughout the region. Arrowwood is a medium sized, multi-stemmed shrub that grows to a height of 10 to 12 feet. The shrub thrives in a variety of soils, but prefers moist, well drained sites; it needs partial sunlight to thrive. Arrow-wood can be found in the north eastern part of the United States and Southern Canada. This plant gets its name from the fact that Native Americans often used the straight growing stem of this plant as arrow shafts.

Arrowwood has a single deciduous leaf that has opposite branching structure. It flowers in early summer and bears fruit in the fall. The fall fruits make excellent food for birds at a time of year when food is less than plentiful. Arrow-wood has dense growth characteristics, and very few insect or disease pests affect its health. As such, arrow-wood has become an important cultivar for landscape screens and wildlife plantings. The attractive flowers are an additional benefit.

Article by FCFCDB

Nature note for 7/31/2021