Sambucus canadensis

Product Info

American Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis)
Viburnum Family

 American elderberry, is a deciduous shrub known for its clusters of small, fragrant cream-colored flowers that bloom in late spring and its dark purple berries that ripen in late summer. This large shrub thrives in a variety of habitats, from moist woodlands to roadside thickets, and is valued both for its ecological benefits—such as providing food and shelter for wildlife—and its uses in traditional medicine. The berries, when properly prepared, are often used to make syrups, jams, and wines.  However, caution is advised as raw berries and other parts of the plant can be toxic if consumed in large quantities. Elderberry has a high wildlife value and can often be seen covered in various pollinators. It is a host plant to several lepidopteran species and specialized beetles. Berries are an important food source for several species of birds. This is a very large, but very prunable shrub. It prefers to be in consistently moist soil, but can adapt to average garden soil. Will form dense thickets over time.

Blooms: White, 3-4 weeks, May-June
Leaves: Green, compound, pinnate 6-12” long and wide
Height:4-12’ 
Space: 4-5’
Soil: Moist, wet, will tolerate average
Exposure:  Full sun, Part sun
Fauna: Pollen only-- bees & beetles, birds &  small animals eat the fruit, host plant to over 30 moths and butterflies
Seeds: ¼” dark purple drupes are edible when fully ripe and cooked. 
Zone: 4-8
Deer Resistance: High
Native Status: NC Native, common across the state
Provenance: North Carolina, seed grown