Plant of the Month November 2019: Possum-haw

Photo: Possom-haw in fall with fruit. Photo credit: ©Betsy Washington

Viburnums are attractive and adaptable native shrubs with plenty of landscape interest throughout the year from showy spring flowers, to colorful fruit and fall foliage. Of the 11 species native to Virginia, the stunning Possum-haw or Southern Wild Raisin (Viburnum nudum) is perhaps our loveliest. A multitude of common names refer to the showy fruit that turn from whitish pink to deep rose in September, then vivid light blue and finally dark blackish-blue. All colors can even be present at the same time. The fruit often persists late into November, with clusters hanging on the ends of branches like “dried raisins” creating a stunning display against a backdrop of brilliant burgundy to scarlet fall foliage. 

This handsome shrub reaches 6 to 12’ high, with lustrous dark green leaves that look as if they have been polished. One of the last viburnums to bloom, by late spring Possom-haw is covered with flat-topped clusters of creamy white flowers that can reach up to 6” in diameter. It is a host for the Holly Blue butterfly and the Hummingbird Clearwing Moth and a nectar source for pollinators. 

Possom-haw is found in seepage swamps, bogs, wet, low woods, along streambanks and maritime swamps in acidic woods. Like other viburnums, it can be very adaptable and fast growing, performing best in acidic soils that do not become excessively dry, yet quite tolerant of a range of exposures. For the best show and most prolific flowers and fruit, give it at least a half-day of sun in moist, organic soils. As a rule, viburnums are usually not self-fertile, so for prolific fruit display, plant two or more unrelated specimens and avoid planting only one cultivar. This shrub is worthy of specimen use, and also perfect for deciduous hedges, screens, or mixed shrub borders. Its tolerance of poor, wet soils also makes it an ideal candidate for rain gardens, or damp areas along ponds or streams.

Possom-haw also increases its ornamental appeal by enticing a variety of wildlife into your garden. It attracts Cedar Waxwings, Brown Thrashers, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, Eastern Bluebirds, and Purple Finches, as well as waterfowl in wet areas, and a number of small mammals. Opossums relish its long-lasting, tasty fruit (hence a popular common name). The fruit was also eaten raw or cooked by native Americans and used to make a pleasant tasting tea.

This beautiful shrub is sure to draw rave reviews from gardening friends as well as wildlife and is a true Northern Neck beauty!