Viburnum dentatum 'Chicago Lustre' is a robust arrowwood viburnum selection known for its glossy dark green foliage, abundant white flowers, and deep blue fruit clusters that attract birds. Its larger form and fast growth make it an excellent choice for screening, windbreaks, or naturalistic hedging.
Height & Spread: 8 - 10 ft x 6 - 8 ft
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soils; tolerant of clay and urban pollution
Watering Needs: Moderate; can tolerate brief drought once established
Deer Resistance: Moderately deer resistant
Native Status
This cultivar originates from the North American native Viburnum dentatum and maintains high wildlife and landscape value.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- Highly attractive to songbirds such as mockingbirds, bluebirds, and cardinals that feed on its late season berries.
Bees
- Supports pollinators including bumblebees, sweat bees, and small carpenter bees during spring bloom.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 6 - 8 ft apart to form an effective hedge or privacy screen.
Landscape Placement
- Excellent for natural screens, pollinator hedgerows, and native restoration projects. Useful in urban landscapes with minimal maintenance.
Companion Plants
- Symphyotrichum novi-belgii (New York Aster) - Complements fruiting shrubs with late bloom.
- Solidago rugosa Fireworks (Goldenrod) - Extends bloom season with yellow fall color for pollinators.
- Physostegia virginiana (Obedient Plant) - Adds bold spikes and native texture at the base of viburnums.
- Cornus sericea (Red Twig Dogwood) - Adds winter stem color and layered structure.
- Lindera benzoin (Spicebush) - Offers fragrant foliage and berries for wildlife.