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| The arrowwood viburnums (Viburnum dentatum) are currently flowering in the arboretum. As shown in the photo above, this species produces large clusters of tiny white flowers. The individual pictured above is our tree of the week—one of seven arrowwood volunteers. |
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| Our tree of the week grows on the west side of Mickle Hall, at the top of a slope in a mostly sunny location. This specimen is at least 14 years old. Over the years it has been trimmed to resemble a multi-stemmed small tree, but it would have preferred to grow as a large, spreading shrub. |
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| Not all of the arrowwood viburnums are flowering as marvelously as this one. The other six volunteers, for the most part, are sparsely decorated, perhaps because of their low-light growing conditions. |
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| A frantic pollinator was also examining this particular arrowwood. These beautiful flowers have a definite fragrance, but not a pleasant one. |
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| A few twigs were snipped for closer inspection. An individual leaf is about the same size as a flower cluster. |
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| Arrowwood viburnum twig |
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| This flower cluster measures more than 3½ inches wide. |
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| The fresh, velvety leaves appear opposite from one another along the twig. |
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| Opposite leaf arrangement of arrowwood viburnum |
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| Twigs and leafstalks are textured, not smooth. Leaves are noticeably soft and fuzzy. |
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| Leaf shape varies. On the left, we have an orbicular shape with an obtuse tip. The center leaf has a more characteristic deltoid shape. On the right, a cordate shape is apparent. But for each leaf, the margins are toothed (dentate). |
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| The upper surface is green while underneath, leaves are light green, almost white. |
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| These new leaves vary in size, ranging from 3 to 3½ inches wide. |
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| Our center leaf is 3¼ inches wide. |
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| Leafstalk measures ½ inch long, and the leaf measures 3⅜ inches long. |
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| The slender trunks have dark grey bark. |
One year ago today this same little tree was flowering. You can see proof here.
You can find additional photos of the arboretum's arrow wood viburnums here.
For more information about this species consult the following:
United States Department of Agriculture
Louisiana Plant Identification and Interactive Virtual Tours (LSU AgCenter)
University of Arkansas
