Downy Arrow-Wood
Viburnum rafinesqueanum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Viburnum rafinesqueanum is a native deciduous shrub found across eastern North America that produces clusters of white flowers in May and June. This adaptable species thrives in partial sun with medium moisture and attracts beneficial pollinators.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Downy Arrow-Wood as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
72"–120" H × 48"–96" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 26 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Downy Arrowwood is a medium-sized native shrub that produces clusters of small white flowers in late spring and early summer. It develops attractive blue-black berries in fall and offers good autumn color, making it a versatile landscape plant.
Growing Downy Arrow-Wood
Grow Downy Arrow-Wood in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 72 to 120 inches tall and spread 48 to 96 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Downy Arrow-Wood is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The flowers attract various pollinators including bees, beetles, and flies. The berries provide important food for songbirds and other wildlife.
Common questions
- When does Downy Arrow-Wood bloom?
- Viburnum rafinesqueanum blooms in May and June, producing flat-topped clusters of small white flowers that attract bees, beetles, and flies.
- Where is Downy Arrow-Wood native?
- This shrub is native to much of eastern and central North America, from the Northeast down to Georgia and Texas, and west to the Dakotas and Oklahoma.
- What pollinators visit Viburnum rafinesqueanum?
- The flowers attract a variety of beneficial insects including native bees, beetles, and flies that help with pollination.
- What growing conditions does Downy Arrow-Wood prefer?
- This adaptable native shrub tolerates full sun to partial shade and prefers medium moisture levels, though it can handle somewhat drier conditions once established.
- Is Downy Arrow-Wood toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Downy Arrow-Wood as toxic to livestock.
- Is Downy Arrow-Wood HOA-friendly?
- Downy Arrow-Wood is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Downy Arrow-Wood? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz