shrubN. America Native

Blue Muffin Viburnum

Viburnum dentatum 'Christom'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

72 inches

Width

72 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

20-40 years

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Berries are edible for birds but not recommended for humans

The Story

Plant Bio

Arrowwood Viburnum is a tough, adaptable, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub native to eastern North America, known for its creamy-white flowers, dark blue fruit, and reliable fall color. 'Christom', sold as BLUE MUFFIN, is a compact selection that is smaller than the species, making it suitable for residential landscapes. It is particularly valued for its heavy flower and fruit set, producing masses of intense blue berries that are highly ornamental.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Blue Muffin offers multi-season appeal with its flat-topped clusters of white flowers in spring, attractive glossy foliage in summer, stunning clusters of bright blue berries in late summer and fall, and a respectable reddish-purple fall leaf color.

Its compact, rounded habit makes it an excellent choice for informal hedges, screens, or foundation plantings. It is a tough, adaptable shrub that tolerates a range of conditions, including clay and periodically wet soils, making it a reliable landscape performer.

This native shrub is an ecological superstar. The flowers are a valuable nectar and pollen source for native bees and other pollinators. The berries are a high-fat food source eagerly consumed by dozens of bird species, including cedar waxwings and bluebirds.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site in full sun to part shade with average, moist soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the container.
Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the crown is at soil level.
Backfill with soil and water thoroughly.
Plant a different V. dentatum variety within 50 feet for pollination.
Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant another V. dentatum cultivar nearby, like 'Chicago Lustre', to ensure cross-pollination for the best fruit production.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, as it does not like to dry out.
Plant in full sun for the best flowering and fruiting.
Prune after flowering to maintain a tidy shape.
Plant a pollinator partner for reliable berry set.

Don't

Don't let the soil become bone dry.
Avoid pruning in late summer, fall, or winter, or you will lose the flowers.
Don't plant in a region where viburnum leaf beetle is a severe problem without a management plan.
Refrain from planting in high pH soils.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Pest Check
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Excellent native shrub for mixed borders and hedgesKey component in wildlife and bird gardensAdaptable foundation planting with four-season interest

Companion Plants

Echinacea purpurea Rudbeckia fulgida Panicum virgatum 'Northwind' Ilex verticillata 'Red Sprite' Clethra alnifolia 'Hummingbird'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Blue Muffin Viburnum questions

What zones can Blue Muffin Viburnum grow in?

Blue Muffin Viburnum is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Blue Muffin Viburnum deer resistant?

Yes — Blue Muffin Viburnum is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Blue Muffin Viburnum bloom?

Blue Muffin Viburnum typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Blue Muffin Viburnum need full sun?

Blue Muffin Viburnum does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.