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 the USDA PLANTS Database 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.

Northern Arrow-wood

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Viburnum recognitum

Last reviewed: June 2026

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

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 the USDA PLANTS Database 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 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 Northern Arrow-wood? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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