Nannyberry Tree Shrub {Viburnum lentago) Edible | Medicinal | 20 seeds Free U.S. Shipping!

 

NANNYBERRY - VIBURNUM LENTAGO

Common Name: nannyberry

 

Scientific Name: 

Family: Adoxaceae

Genus: Viburnum

Species: lentago

 

Hardiness Zone: 3 to 7

Height: 8 to 25 ft 

Width: 10 to 15 ft

 

Common Characteristics:​

 

Nannyberry can be grown as a large, multi-stemmed shrub or a small tree. 

The bark is a dark, brownish-black color with a blocky appearance. The 

leaves are in an opposite arrangement and are long oval-shaped with finely 

serrated edges. The top of the leaves is dark green and lighter underneath, 

turning reddish-purple in the fall. Nannyberry has a large terminal bud that 

is reddish-purple and looks similar to a goose bill. The small non-fragrant 

flowers are cream-colored and arranged in a flat-topped cluster. The flowers 

are followed by berry-like drupes that are blue-black in color and persist 

through the winter. 

 

Where it Grows:

 

Nannyberry grows in well-drained soils and prefers full sun to part shade. 

It can tolerate dry sites, occasional flooding, and wet sites. It can tolerate 

road salt to some degree. Nannyberry is typically found growing in woodlands 

and wood edges. 

 

How it's Used:

 

Nannyberry can be used as a specimen tree, in borders and windbreaks, and 

under utility wires. The berries are edible and can be used to make jams and 

jellies. It has a moderate growth rate and is prone to suckering. 

 

Ecosystem Services:

 

Butterflies and other insect pollinators are attracted to the flowers. The berries 

are a popular food source for birds. Nannyberry is also a caterpillar and larva 

host to the azure butterfly.