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Description
Viburnum Rufidulum, also known as Rusty Blackhaw, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Adoxaceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States and is commonly found in woodlands, thickets, and along streams. The plant can reach a height of 15-20 feet and a spread of 10-15 feet. It has an upright growth habit with a rounded crown and a dense branching pattern. The bark is gray-brown and scaly, while the leaves are oval-shaped and glossy, turning reddish-purple in the fall. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, blooming in mid to late spring. The fruit is a blue-black drupe that attracts birds and other wildlife.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Adoxaceae |
| Genus | Viburnum |
Appearance
Viburnum Rufidulum has a striking appearance, making it a popular choice for landscaping. The plant has an upright growth habit with a rounded crown and a dense branching pattern. The leaves are oval-shaped, glossy, and dark green, turning reddish-purple in the fall. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, blooming in mid to late spring. The fruit is a blue-black drupe that attracts birds and other wildlife. The bark is gray-brown and scaly, adding to the plant’s unique appearance.
Care Guide
Viburnum Rufidulum is a low-maintenance plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your Viburnum Rufidulum healthy and happy:
Water: Viburnum Rufidulum prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week during periods of drought.
Fertilization: Viburnum Rufidulum does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth.
Soil: Viburnum Rufidulum prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Sunlight: Viburnum Rufidulum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate shade but may produce fewer flowers and fruits.
Hardiness Zones: Viburnum Rufidulum is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Viburnum Rufidulum is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to some common pests and diseases, including:
Scale Insects: Scale insects can infest Viburnum Rufidulum, causing yellowing leaves and stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control the infestation.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that can cause leaf spotting, defoliation, and twig dieback. Remove infected plant parts and apply a fungicide to prevent further spread of the disease.
Habitat
Viburnum Rufidulum is native to the southeastern United States, where it can be found in woodlands, thickets, and along streams. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. It is a popular choice for landscaping due to its striking appearance and low-maintenance requirements.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the best time to prune Viburnum Rufidulum?
A: The best time to prune Viburnum Rufidulum is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Prune out any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and shape the plant as desired.
Q: How often should I water Viburnum Rufidulum?
A: Viburnum Rufidulum prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week during periods of drought.
Q: Can Viburnum Rufidulum tolerate shade?
A: Yes, Viburnum Rufidulum can tolerate shade but may produce fewer flowers and fruits.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Viburnum Rufidulum?
A: Viburnum Rufidulum is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Viburnum Rufidulum:
- Viburnum dentatum (Arrowwood Viburnum)
- Viburnum opulus (European Cranberrybush Viburnum)
- Viburnum plicatum (Japanese Snowball Viburnum)
- Viburnum trilobum (American Cranberrybush Viburnum)
References
- “Viburnum rufidulum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287028.
- “Viburnum rufidulum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=VIRU.
- “Viburnum rufidulum.” North Carolina State University. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/viburnum-rufidulum/.
