Nannyberry (Viburnum lentago)
A versatile and resilient native shrub or small tree offering three seasons of beauty and benefits for local wildlife.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Expected Size | Height: 10–18 ft Spread: 6–12 ft |
| Growth Rate | Medium: Grows at a moderate pace of 12 to 18 inches per year. |
| Foliage/Color | Lush green foliage in spring and summer, turning beautiful shades of red and reddish-purple in the fall. |
| Flowers/Fruit | Showy clusters of creamy-white flowers appear in late spring (May), followed by hanging clusters of berries that ripen from yellowish-pink to blue-black and persist into winter. |
| Hardiness Zone | USDA Zone 2-8: Extremely cold-hardy and adaptable, perfect for the Black Hills. |
Why the Black Hills Needs a Nannyberry
Bring year-round beauty and resilient performance to your landscape with this adaptable native.
- Exceptional Versatility: Nannyberry thrives in a wide range of conditions, from full sun to partial shade and moist to dry soils. This makes it a reliable choice for various spots in your yard.
- Three-Season Beauty: Enjoy the creamy-white blooms in late spring, the lush green foliage through summer, and the stunning red-to-burgundy fall color. The persistent dark blue berries add ornamental interest through winter.
- Wildlife Magnet: The berries are a valuable and long-lasting food source for birds, providing essential sustenance during the colder months. The plant also attracts a variety of pollinators to its flowers.
- Easy to Grow: This is a low-maintenance plant with no serious insect or disease issues.
- Edible Fruit: The berries are edible and have a unique flavor (some describe it as fig-like), which can be used to make jams and jellies.
- Safe for Pets: Nannyberry is a non-toxic plant, making it a safe choice for gardeners with pets.
Plant the tough and beautiful Nannyberry and enjoy its low-maintenance, high-reward performance in your Black Hills landscape!