Northern Arrow-wood
Viburnum recognitum
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
Northern Arrow-wood (Viburnum recognitum) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Northern 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 23 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 437 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaBrowse plants for this ecoregion
Northern arrow-wood is a medium to large native shrub that produces clusters of small white flowers in late spring and early summer. It develops attractive fall color and berries, making it a sturdy choice for naturalistic landscaping. This adaptable shrub thrives in partial sun with moderate water needs.
In an HOA neighborhood
Northern 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
Host plant for spring azure, honeysuckle moth.
The flowers attract bees, beetles, and flies during the blooming period. Birds often feed on the berries that develop after flowering.
Common questions
- How much sun does Northern Arrow-wood need?
- Northern Arrow-wood grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Northern Arrow-wood bloom?
- Northern Arrow-wood blooms in May and June.
- Where is Northern Arrow-wood native?
- Northern Arrow-wood (Viburnum recognitum) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 23 more states, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Northern Arrow-wood toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Northern Arrow-wood as toxic to livestock.
- What butterflies or moths does Northern Arrow-wood host?
- Northern Arrow-wood is a larval host plant for spring azure and honeysuckle moth.
- Is Northern Arrow-wood HOA-friendly?
- Northern Arrow-wood is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Northern 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