The arrowwood viburnum takes its name because Native Americans reportedly used its straight stems to make arrows. It is not the showiest member of the genus Viburnum, but it may be the most useful and durable; the arrowwood viburnum and its many cultivars are widely used for hedges and screening or at the back of borders. This viburnum will grow to a height of 6' to 8'. It suckers from the base and has a tendency to colonize. Cultivar selection from the species has focused on varieties with attractive reddish fall color. Arrowwood viburnum's white flowers in late May are followed by bluish black fruit favored by birds.

Viburnums are a versatile genus of multi-stemmed shrubs that are well suited to the home landscape due to their range of sizes and cultural adaptability. Some viburnums are noted for their fragrant flowers; most bear small fruit that may add visual interest. Many viburnums have attractive fall color. There are over 100 different varieties of viburnum at the Chicago Botanic Garden.