Nannyberry Viburnum lentago 'Sphaerocarpum'
ABOUT
The plant known commonly as the Nannyberry is a visually appealing deciduous shrub with a variety of features that change throughout the seasons. It possesses a branching habit that gives it a full and rounded appearance. The leaves are elongated with finely serrated edges and come to a gentle point. During the growing season, these leaves exhibit a vibrant green hue, which transforms into a striking display of reds and purples in the fall, providing a beautiful autumnal interest. The Nannyberry is well-loved for its flowers and fruits. In the spring, it produces clusters of small, creamy white flowers that are not only attractive but also carry a delightful fragrance. These blooms are an excellent source of nectar for pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Following the flowering period, the plant bears fruit that start off as a green color and gradually mature into a deep, bluish-black shade. The fruits are small, plump, and somewhat rounded, resembling berries. They are favored by various bird species and can also be used in jams and jellies if desired. The overall visual appeal of the Nannyberry is one of a lush and bountiful shrub that brings life and color to the landscape across multiple seasons, with its attractive foliage, charming flowers, and edible fruits.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Adoxaceae.
Synonyms
Nannyberry, Sheepberry, Sweet Viburnum, Wild Raisin.
Common names
Viburnum lentago.
ToxicityTo humans
The Nannyberry (Viburnum lentago) is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, individual parts such as leaves or unripe berries might cause stomach upset if ingested in large quantities. The ripe berries of the Nannyberry are edible and are often used in jellies and preserves. There is no widespread evidence of significant toxicity in humans from consuming parts of this plant, and poisoning symptoms are rare.
To pets
The Nannyberry is also generally considered non-toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. While the ripe berries are not harmful, pets consuming large amounts of the plant might experience mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, due to the non-digestible parts or natural plant compounds. There is no well-documented toxicity of Viburnum lentago 'Sphaerocarpum' in pets, and significant poisoning is uncommon.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
12 feet (3.66 meters)
Spread
8 feet (2.44 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
2
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage – Adds visual interest to gardens with its lush, green leaves that change to beautiful reddish-purple in the fall.
- Wildlife Habitat – Provides shelter and nesting sites for birds as well as a food source when it produces berries.
- Low Maintenance – Generally has minimal needs in terms of pruning and is resilient once established.
- Drought Tolerant – Once established, it can withstand periods of low water, making it suitable for various landscapes.
- Hardy Plant – Can tolerate a range of temperatures and climates, making it a versatile choice for gardeners in different regions.
- Seasonal Interest – Offers year-round interest with spring flowers, summer berries, vibrant fall foliage, and a structural presence in winter.
- Privacy Screen – Can be used as a natural screen or hedge, providing privacy and reducing noise when planted in groups.
- Pollinator Friendly – Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its flowers, supporting local ecosystems.
- Ornamental Berries – Produces attractive blue-black berries that can be used in floral arrangements and provide a food source for wildlife.
- Soil Stabilization – Its root system can help prevent erosion and stabilize the soil in sloped gardens.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Wildlife Habitat: Nannyberry serves as a habitat for various wildlife species, offering shelter and breeding grounds for birds and small mammals.
- Ink Production: The berries of Nannyberry can be used to make a natural, dark blue or purple ink for art projects and traditional crafts.
- Photography Prop: Nannyberry's attractive blooms and berries can be used as props or subjects in botanical photography.
- Natural Dyes: The fruit and bark can be used to produce natural dyes for coloring fabrics or yarns.
- Fruit Pectin: The berries contain pectin, which can be extracted and used as a natural thickener in jams and jellies.
- Educational Resource: Nannyberry can be utilized as a teaching tool in botany or horticulture programs, illustrating plant growth and development.
- Water Filtration: Planting Nannyberry near water bodies can help in filtering and stabilizing soil, thus reducing erosion and improving water quality.
- Noise Barrier: Dense Nannyberry shrubs can be used as a natural noise barrier in landscaping along roads or between properties.
- Floral Arrangements: The branches and berries can be used for making decorative floral arrangements and wreaths.
- Cultural Symbolism: In certain cultures or communities, Nannyberry may hold symbolic value and be used in ceremonial practices or as heritage plants in gardens.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Nannyberry is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Nannyberry is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal: Viburnum lentago, commonly known as Nannyberry, blooms in spring symbolizing new beginnings and rejuvenation of life.
- Protection: Nannyberries have been used in the past to make a protective hedge, representing safety and defense.
- Abundance: The plant often produces plentiful berries, hence symbolizing abundance and generosity.
- Education: As Nannyberry plants are great for wildlife education due to their ecological benefits, they symbolize the thirst for knowledge and learning.
- Growth: The vigorous growth of Nannyberry embodies personal growth and development.
WaterFor the Nannyberry Viburnum, adequate hydration is necessary, especially when the plant is establishing its roots and during dry spells. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing about 1-2 gallons of water to moisten the soil thoroughly without causing waterlogging. During periods of extreme heat or drought, this frequency may need to increase to twice a week to ensure that the soil remains consistently moist, not soggy. Ensure that the watering is slow and deep to reach the root zone rather than shallow sprinkles that only wet the surface. In cooler months or when rainfall is sufficient, you can reduce watering to every other week or less, monitoring the soil's moisture level.
LightThe Nannyberry Viburnum thrives best in full sun to partial shade. An ideal spot would expose the plant to at least six hours of sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hotter regions to protect from scorching. Placing the Nannyberry in a location where morning sunlight is prominent will promote healthy growth and abundant blooming.
TemperatureNannyberry Viburnum is a hardy shrub that can withstand a range of temperatures. It can survive in temperatures as low as -30°F and as high as 100°F. Ideally, the plant prefers the moderate temperature range typical of its native habitat, with ideal growing conditions between 60°F and 80°F.
PruningPrune Nannyberry Viburnum to maintain its shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and promote healthy growth. The ideal time for pruning is late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Thin out older branches to increase light penetration to the interior of the plant every few years, and conduct light shaping as required after the plant flowers to avoid cutting off next year's blooms.
CleaningAs needed
SoilNannyberry prefers moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. The best soil mix can be created by combining loam, peat moss, and coarse sand, which allows for good drainage and fertility. The soil pH for optimal growth should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.0.
RepottingNannyberry doesn't often require repotting as it's primarily grown outdoors and can develop a deep root system. Repotting is generally not necessary unless the plant is grown in a container, in which case it should be done every 3-5 years or when it outgrows its current pot.
Humidity & MistingNannyberry thrives in average outdoor humidity levels. While specific humidity requirements are not critical for this hardy species, it can tolerate a range from somewhat dry to very humid conditions without any negative effects on the plant's health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light, and ensure room is well-ventilated.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, protect from strong winds and extremes.
Hardiness zone
2-8 USDA
Life cycleThe common name for Viburnum lentago 'Sphaerocarpum' is Nannyberry. It begins its life cycle as a seed, which once germinated, establishes a root system and sprouts into a seedling. As it grows into a young plant, it develops a woody stem and a foliage of ovate leaves that turn a variety of colors in the fall. The nannyberry transitions to maturity by developing flowers in clusters, typically white and blooming in spring, which are pollinated by insects. After pollination, these flowers give way to oval blue-black fruits, which are often eaten by wildlife, aiding in seed dispersal. Throughout its life, the nannyberry experiences periods of dormancy during the winter months, resuming growth in the spring and continuing its cycle for many years, as it is a deciduous perennial shrub.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
The Viburnum lentago 'Sphaerocarpum', commonly known as Nannyberry, is typically propagated through softwood cuttings during late spring or early summer when new growth is still green and flexible. To propagate Nannyberry using softwood cuttings, one should select healthy shoots that have just begun to mature, generally around 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long. Cut just below a leaf node and remove the lower leaves. The cut end should then be dipped in a rooting hormone to enhance root development before being inserted into a potting mix. The pot should be kept moist and placed in a location with indirect light, where the cuttings can form roots over a period of several weeks. After the roots have established, the new Nannyberry plants can be transplanted to a more permanent location.
