Sheepberry
Viburnum lentago
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Pl. 5D71 — Viburnum lentago
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IOverview
Overview
Sheepberry (Viburnum lentago) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the northeastern and north-central United States and southeastern Canada. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils ranging from light sandy to heavy clay and prefers partial sun to full sun exposure. Native to Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Manitoba, Maryland, and other states within its range, this plant is known for its edible fruit, which can be enjoyed fresh or used in jams and jellies. One distinctive feature of the sheepberry is its light green foliage that turns a brilliant red in autumn, adding ornamental value to landscapes. The tree reaches heights up to 9 meters and is hardy in zones 2-8.
Quick answers
What is Sheepberry?
Sheepberry (Viburnum lentago) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the northeastern and north-central United States and southeastern Canada. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils ranging from light sandy to heavy clay and prefers partial sun to full sun exposure.
What is Sheepberry used for?
Traditionally used for digestion, immune support. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Sheepberry
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Sheepberry has been traditionally used in Native American medicine to aid digestion, often prepared as a decoction. Its mild action supports the digestive system and may help alleviate occasional indigestion.
The mechanism is not fully characterised but likely involves compounds that support gastrointestinal motility and reduce inflammation.
- Sheepberry has been traditionally used in herbal medicine to support the immune system, often prepared as a tea. Its use is based on its antioxidant properties and ability to enhance overall health.
The mechanism involves flavonoids and other polyphenolic compounds that act as antioxidants and modulate immune responses.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Sheepberry support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Sheepberry thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-drained soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 2-8 and can grow up to 9 meters tall. This versatile plant can be propagated through seed or cuttings. The fruit is edible and can be enjoyed fresh or used in various culinary applications.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
2-8
Habit
Tree, Shrub
Mature size
9.0 m tall
Soil pH
5–7
For first-time growers
How to grow Sheepberry for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, hardy tree that thrives in various conditions.
- 1
What you'll need
Sheepberry saplings or seeds, garden gloves, spade, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with moist, well-draining soil; full sun to partial shade. Ensure containers have good drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant saplings in spring or fall. For seeds, sow them in late summer or early autumn.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water during dry spells; mulch around the base to retain moisture. Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to encourage new growth and remove dead branches. Harvest fruit when it turns a deep red.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in too sunny a spot, neglecting regular pruning, using chemical fertilizers, not providing enough mulch.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of the sheepberry tree (Viburnum lentago) is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Typically, the berries are harvested when ripe and consumed fresh, though they may also be dried for later use. The fruit has a mild flavor and can add a natural sweetness to jams and jellies.
Other uses:HedgerowLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Maryland, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Brunswick, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Québec, Rhode I., Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Connecticut
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family, common use cases, and growing requirements.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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