American Elderberry, Sweet Elderberry
Synonym: Sambucus canadensis, Sambucus mexicana, Sambucus cerulea var. mexicana, Sambucus orbiculata, Sambucus simpsonii
Family: Caprifoliaceae
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Recommended Temperature Zone: sunset: All zones USDA: 3-11 Sun Exposure: Full sun to light shade Origin: Eastern North America from Nova Scotia to northern Mexico Growth Habits: Deciduous to semi-evergreen shrub, up to 15 feet tall (4.5 m); pinnately compound leaves, 3 to 7 serrate leaflets, 2 to 6 inches long (5-15 cm) Watering Needs: Regular to little water when established Propagation: Offset, seeds, cuttings |
Blooming Habits:
Small white flowers, in flat top clusters, up to 10 inches in diameter (25 cm), in early summer.
Fruiting Habits:
The elderberry has purplish-black berries, 0.12 to 0.25 inch in diameter (3-6 mm). The fruits of the elderberry are very attractive to birds. They are also edible and can be used to make jelly or wine. Tea made with the dried flowers is supposed to be good for the cough.
Propagation:
Cuttings are easy. Seeds need stratification.
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