Sambucus canadensis (American Elderberry)

Sambucus canadensis (American Elderberry) is a multi-stemmed deciduous shrub of loose open habit with arching, spreading branches, clothed in the lush foliage of sharply serrated, bright green leaves composed of 7 leaflets. In early to mid-summer, a profusion of lemon-scented white flowers appear in large flat clusters. They give way to black elderberry fruits later in the season. Attractive to birds, the fruits may be used to make jams, jellies, and elderberry wine. Good shrub for naturalized areas where suckering spread may be appreciated.

The American Elderberry is a magnet for numerous bird species, including the American Goldfinch, American Robin, Baltimore Oriole, Cedar Waxwing, Eastern Bluebird, House Finch, Northern Cardinal, Northern Mockingbird, warblers, and many more. Its abundant berries and dense foliage provide essential food and shelter, making it a favorite among avian visitors.

• Grows up to 5-12 ft. tall and wide (150-360 cm). Spreads freely by root suckers to form colonies.
• Performs best in full sun or part shade, in medium to wet, well-drained soils. Best foliage color when grown in full sun. Drought tolerant.
• Excellent choice as a single specimen plant, informal screens, or hedges.
• May be subject to verticillium wilt and aphids. Deer resistant.
• Propagate by softwood cuttings in early summer or hardwood cuttings in winter.
• Prune hard in spring to maintain the best foliage and habit.
• This plant has low severity poison characteristics. All parts may cause discomfort if ingested, although the berries can be edible if cooked.
• Toxic to horses, toxic to humans.
• Native to North America