The Nannyberry features showy creamy white flat-top flowers in mid spring, glossy dark green foliage throughout the summer turning to an outstanding bright red in the fall. The royal blue fruits are held in abundance in spectacular clusters from late summer right through to late winter or until the birds eat them. The smooth black bark is not particularly outstanding.
This plant is a multi-stemmed deciduous shrub with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its average texture blends into the landscape, but can be balanced by one or two finer or coarser trees or shrubs for an effective composition.
This shrub will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and should only be pruned after flowering to avoid removing any of the current season's flowers. It is a good choice for attracting birds but not deer. The plant has a tendency to suckker.
Nannyberry will grow to be about 10 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 8 feet. It tends to be a little leggy, with a typical clearance of 4 feet from the ground, and is suitable for planting under power lines. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 40 years or more.
This shrub performs well in both full sun and full shade. It is very adaptable to both dry and moist locations, and should do just fine under average home landscape conditions. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments.
