Wild flower Challenge

[Tom]

A few years ago I had all the trees and undergrowth cleared off the dam around the 2 acre pond out back. That let a lot of sunshine in, and other things started growing. Now, after several years, I have found a wild flower growing on the dam, right down next to (partially in) the water.
When I first discovered it, I first thought it might be some annual thing that just showed up. But now, this year, the new growth is really showing out with pretty white flowers. It took some time to run down the name, so I thought it may be fun to see if anyone here can name it.

[Rebecca]

Tom,

The flower heads remind me of a viburnum; so could it possible be a native viburnum species?

Rebecca

[Ann B.]

The flowers remind me of Spirea, but the leaves remind me more of Lantana.

So, I give up if no one else wants to try. Anyway, it is very, very pretty and NICE!

[Tom]

OK, guess no body else wants to play.

Rebecca is VERY close.

This plant grows from zone 3-8. You have probably seen it in the wild, but just took it for a weed.

It is actually a native Viburnum.

Arrowwood Viburnum, Viburnum dentatum.

http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/consumer/factsheets/shrubs/viburnum_dentatum.html

[Rebecca]

Tom,

Considering I seldom get out into the woods and wilds anymore I'd have to say I hit it on the head. :p LOL!

Rebecca

[Dazed_Lily]

Gee Tom. I had no idea where to start but the photo is breath taking. I'd say Rebecca won !
Does it really have an "unpleasant smell" ?

[Tom]

I didn't know about the smell until you asked. So, I took a trip down there to check it out. You have to get your nose right up close in order to smell it.

The answer is Y E S! it has an unpleasant smell. It's sort of like the chestnut tree when it's in bloom, or ginko fruit.

But, not to worry, it's at least 300' from the house and I really enjoy looking at it across the pond.

Maybe I can plant some sweetshrub in the same area and overpower it. They bloom at about the same time.

Good job Rebecca!

[vicki]

Very gorgeous Tom. I have seen them here lots of times. :)