Maintenance Landscaping Design

Nannyberry viburnum is a native North American deciduous shrub belonging to the Caprifoliaceae family. The plant is characterized by opposite, simple leaves and clusters of small white flowers borne in the late spring or early summer. Fruits are black or dark blue berries that ripen in the fall and typically persist into the winter months, providing an important source of food for birds and other wildlife.

Also known as

• European cranberry bush
  
• American cranberry bush
  
• Highbush cranberry
  
• Mountain cranberry
  
• Cranberry bush

Basic info

• Nannyberry viburnum is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America.
  
• It is a member of the Adoxaceae family.
  
• The shrub typically grows to be about 6-12 feet tall.
  
• Nannyberry viburnum has opposite, simple leaves that are dark green in color and have a leathery texture.
  
• The shrub produces small, white flowers in the springtime.
  
• These flowers are followed by blue-black berries in the fall.
  
• Nannyberry viburnum is a food source for many birds and other animals.
  
• The shrub is also a popular ornamental plant.
  
• Nannyberry viburnum is relatively easy to care for and is tolerant of a variety of growing conditions.
  
• It can be propagated by seed, cuttings, or division.

Related plant:
Nannyberry

How to Grow

1. For nannyberry viburnum, first step is to choose the planting site. Nannyberry viburnum grows best in full sun to part shade, in moist, well-drained soils. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions, including clay soils.
   
2. The second step is to dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the plant’s root ball.
   
3. The third step is to remove the plant from its container and loosen the roots.
   
4. The fourth step is to place the plant in the hole, making sure that the plant is at the same level it was in the container.
   
5. The fifth step is to backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down as you go.
   
6. The sixth step is to water the plant deeply.
   
7. The seventh step is to mulch around the plant, using a 2-3 inch layer of organic material such as straw, leaves, or bark mulch.
   
8. The eighth step is to fertilize the plant in early spring, using a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-
   
9. The ninth step is to prune the plant in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
   
10. The tenth and final step is to enjoy your beautiful nannyberry viburnum!

Considering the Soil

About soil condition, Nannyberry Viburnum does not prefer any specific type, but well-drained, moist soils are best. It also does not tolerate drought well. Nannyberry Viburnum grows well in full sun to partial shade. It prefers partial shade in hot summer areas.

Light condition

Similar to other types of viburnums, the nannyberry viburnum requires plenty of sun to produce an abundance of flowers. Even though it's a sun-loving plant, it can tolerate some shade, especially in hot summer climates. It's a versatile shrub that can be used in a variety of ways in the landscape.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition that is ideal for nannyberry viburnum is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This plant prefers a location that is in partial shade to full sun. Nannyberry viburnum is a versatile plant that can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, as long as the soil is well-drained.

Ideal Humidity

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 50%. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will start to turn brown and curl. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will start to yellow and drop off.

The Fertilizer

About fertilizer, this family of plant prefers organic matter be incorporated into the planting site. A top dressing of compost or well-rotted manure can be applied in late winter or early spring. You can also use a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10. Apply it according to package directions. Be careful not to overdo it, especially with chemical fertilizers, as too much nitrogen will produce lots of leafy growth at the expense of flowers.

Plant Pruning

Pruning is an important part of keeping your nannyberry viburnum healthy and looking its best. You should prune any dead or damaged branches first, then shape the plant by pruning out any straggly or overgrown branches. Nannyberry viburnums can be pruned back quite hard if necessary, so don't be afraid to give them a good trim.

Plant Propagation

Propagation of nannyberry viburnum can be done through seed or softwood cuttings. To propagate through seed, sow in fall or stratify for 60 days before planting in spring. Seeds germinate best with bottom heat. Cuttings can be taken in late spring or early summer when new growth is beginning to harden off.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is between 24 and 36 inches per year. However, some plants have been known to grow up to 60 inches in a single year. Nannyberry viburnum is a deciduous shrub, meaning that it will lose its leaves in the fall. The leaves are dark green and ovate in shape. The flowers are white and borne in clusters. The fruits are black and berry-like. Nannyberry viburnum is native to North America and can be found in the eastern United States and Canada.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are usually insect or disease related. Some of the insect pests include scale, aphids, and caterpillars. Diseases can include powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot. Some of these problems can be prevented with proper care, such as watering and fertilizing.

List to Know

• Do not forget to water your nannyberry viburnum regularly; the plant prefers moist soil conditions.
  
• Place your nannyberry viburnum in an area with full sun for optimal growth.
  
• Fertilize your nannyberry viburnum every few weeks during the growing season to encourage lush growth.
  
• Prune off any dead or damaged branches from your nannyberry viburnum as needed.
  
• Be on the lookout for pests or diseases that may affect your nannyberry viburnum; if you notice any problems, take corrective action immediately.
  
• Harvest the berries from your nannyberry viburnum when they are ripe; typically, this will be in late summer or early fall.
  
• If you wish to transplant your nannyberry viburnum, do so in late fall or early winter when the plant is dormant.
  
• Keep an eye on the soil moisture levels around your

Similar Plants

• Narrow-leaved viburnum
  
• What you can read next:

Source:
Nannyberry Viburnum | Natural Resource Stewardship
Nannyberry (Viburnum lentago) - Carleton College
Viburnum lentago - Nannyberry Viburnum - plantfacts.osu.edu