American cranberrybush is a deciduous viburnum with a dense, rounded crown, growing about 8 to 12 feet tall with equal spread. The foliage is lobed like a maple leaf, and the dark green color turns red to purple in the fall. White, flat-topped flowers appear May or June, depending on the cultivar, and ripen to a brilliant red in September and October. Butterflies and birds are attracted to the shrub. Useful in shrub and foundation borders, or in a hedge or screen. Many cultivars are available.
Grow in well drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Adaptive to a variety of soil types and pH. Shearing is to be discouraged; prune selectively as necessary to control size, though ideally it is left alone. Avoid shearing; prune selectively (see Guides).