Smooth withe rod, Naked Viburnum, Possum-haw
Viburnum nudum

Family: Adoxaceae

What it is like

An erect shrub. It grows 3 m high and spreads 1.8 m wide. It loses its leaves during the year. The leaves are 5-13 cm long by 2.5-6 cm wide. The leaves are oval and glossy and have prominent veins. There are small teeth along the edge. The leaves are shiny green above and paler and with hairs underneath. The leaves turn reddish-purple in autumn. The flowers are white or pale yellow. They are 12 mm wide. The fruit is about 0.5 cm long. It is deep blue.

There are about 150 Viburnum species. Also put in the family Caprifoliaceae.

Where it is found

It grows in moist soils near streams. In the SE of the USA it can grow to 910 m altitude. It suits hardiness zones 6-9.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia, Canada, North America, USA

How it is used for food

The fruit can be eaten raw.

Edible parts

Fruit

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Viburnum nudum var. nudum;