'Summer Magic' was introduced by Willoway Nursery of Ohio and offers something that straight blackhaw cannot: a tidier, more rounded form that suits smaller suburban gardens and foundation plantings without sacrificing any of the genus's charm. Its new growth emerges a striking red before passing through shades of pink on its way to a mature purplish-green, giving the plant an unusually dynamic foliage display through the growing season. Fall brings another shift, with leaves turning red and yellow before drop.

Unlike many viburnums, 'Summer Magic' is self-fertile, meaning a single plant will produce fruit, though the crop is notably sparse compared to other varieties. The berries are edible both raw and cooked, and the white spring flowers attract bees reliably. Prune only after flowering to avoid cutting off next year's bloom buds, and give it a position in full sun to maximize the fall color display. It has some resistance to mildew, a welcome trait in humid climates where viburnums sometimes struggle.