Quick answer: Rusty blackhaw viburnum (Viburnum rufidulum) is native to 18 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. No live listing of the true species was found as of 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Jay Sturner from USA, Wikimedia Commons (CC-BY-2.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Low |
| Soil | Dry, limestone-based to clay, broadly adaptable |
| Bloom | Apr-May |
| Height | Up to 18-30 ft |
| Wildlife value | Nectar for bees/butterflies/insects, fruit for birds/mammals |
Buying it
No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 16 Sep 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.
No live seed or plant listing found as of 16 Sep 2026. That means our last search didn't surface one — not that the plant is unavailable. Try a regional native-plant nursery.
Quick answers about Rusty blackhaw viburnum
Where is Rusty blackhaw viburnum native?
Rusty blackhaw viburnum (Viburnum rufidulum) is native to 18 states across the Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Rusty blackhaw viburnum bloom?
Rusty blackhaw viburnum blooms Apr-May. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Rusty blackhaw viburnum need?
Light: Part Shade. Water: Low. Soil: Dry, limestone-based to clay, broadly adaptable. Mature height: Up to 18-30 ft.
Is Rusty blackhaw viburnum good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Nectar for bees/butterflies/insects, fruit for birds/mammals.
Is Rusty blackhaw viburnum deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Rusty blackhaw viburnum is drought-tolerant and tolerates shade.
Where can I buy Rusty blackhaw viburnum?
We haven't found an online listing of the true wild species as of 16 Sep 2026. A regional native-plant nursery or native seed company is your best source; ask for Viburnum rufidulum by its scientific name.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Rusty blackhaw viburnum.
- Blackjack oak Quercus marilandica
- Farkleberry Vaccinium arboreum
- Loblolly pine Pinus taeda
- Shortleaf pine Pinus echinata
- Common hoptree Ptelea trifoliata
- Yaupon holly Ilex vomitoria
Also listed under
Get the full buying guide
Every pick worth knowing across pollinators, shade, drought and more, in one PDF, with the tradeoffs spelled out. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.