Called "hobblebush" because of the tendency of its drooping branches to touch the ground and grow roots of their own, thus presenting a tripping hazard for hikers, this native viburnum grows throughout the Eastern US  as far south as Georgia and extends north into Canada.

The plant displays a serrate leaf that is cordate, or roughly heart-shaped.  In early summer, usually around May or June, the plant will form large clusters of white or pink flowers, with two distinct sizes, a larger outer flower and a smaller inner flower.  The larger flowers are sterile and mainly for show; the inner flowers contain reproductive parts.

Unlike many of the imported viburnum, the fruits of the hobblebush can be safely eaten or prepared as a jelly when fully ripened and black.  The flowers provide a rich source of nectar for spring azure butterflies.