The ‘Forest Rouge’ Blackhaw Viburnum is a deciduous shrub or small tree that adds multi-season appeal to any garden. It is a versatile addition, providing visual interest throughout the year.
Forest Rouge Blackhaw Viburnum Characteristics
The ‘Forest Rouge’ Blackhaw Viburnum, scientifically known as Viburnum prunifolium ‘McKRouge’, typically grows as a multi-stemmed shrub or can be trained into a small tree. It reaches a mature height of 10 to 15 feet and a spread of 6 to 10 feet, exhibiting a dense, more oval, and upright branching form compared to the species.
Foliage emerges yellow-green in spring, transitioning to a dark, shiny green during summer. A notable feature is the dark red color of its new stem growth, which provides a striking contrast with the leaves.
In mid-spring, flat-topped clusters of creamy-white flowers appear, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. These blooms are followed by blue-black, oval-shaped fruit, often called “wild raisins,” which ripen in late summer and early fall. These berries persist into winter, offering a valuable food source for birds and other wildlife. The ‘Forest Rouge’ is known for its outstanding maroon, burgundy, or deep red fall color, which can last for up to a month and is impressive even in shadier spots. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Planting and Care
Proper site selection is key for ‘Forest Rouge’ Blackhaw Viburnum. This plant performs best in locations that receive full sun to partial shade, ideally with at least half a day of sunshine to encourage optimal growth and vibrant fall color. It adapts to a range of soil conditions, preferring well-drained soil that is enriched with organic matter, but it can tolerate normal, clay/heavy, or wet soils. It generally thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soils, though it is adaptable to various soil pH levels.
When planting, prepare a hole at least 6 inches wider than the root mass and no deeper than the plant’s root ball. The top of the root ball should be level with or slightly higher than the surrounding ground. Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the roots, and water thoroughly to settle the soil and remove air pockets.
Newly planted viburnums require regular watering to establish a strong root system. Once established, they exhibit good drought tolerance, but supplemental watering during extended dry periods maintains plant health. Applying a layer of mulch around the base helps conserve soil moisture and regulate temperature.
Fertilization is not always necessary, especially if the soil is already rich in organic matter. If growth appears sluggish, a balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied in early spring. Avoid placing fertilizer directly into the planting hole.
Pruning focuses on shaping, removing dead or diseased branches, and thinning older stems to promote new growth. The best time to prune is immediately after flowering in late spring or early summer, as flower buds form on old wood. Light trimming can also occur in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Landscaping Uses
The ‘Forest Rouge’ Blackhaw Viburnum is a versatile plant that enhances various landscape designs. Its upright, oval growth habit makes it suitable as a specimen plant, providing a focal point in a garden bed or lawn. It integrates well into mixed shrub borders, adding seasonal interest with its spring flowers, summer fruit, and striking fall foliage.
This shrub is an excellent choice for naturalized areas, woodland gardens, or for creating informal hedges and privacy screens. Its dense branching provides cover for small mammals and birds. The blue-black berries are a significant attraction for birds, making it a valuable addition to wildlife landscapes. Its multi-season appeal ensures continuous beauty throughout the year.