Sambucus canadensis - elderberry

Height: 5’ to 12’
Spread: 5’ to 12’
Light Needs: sun to part sun (fruit production is best in full sun)
Water: average to moist (tolerates periodic drought once established)
Flower color: white
Bloom time: June to July

This deciduous shrub has upright to sprawling stems and spreads by root suckers. Small white flowers are held in large clusters (to 10” across) in early summer. The flowers attract a wide variety of pollinators. When pollinated, large clusters of small black fruits are produced in late summer. It is reported that single plants will produce fruit but having two or more different clones will provide larger crops. Because of its suckering growth habit, it will require regular maintenance in a formal garden. It may be best in a naturalistic setting and is excellent for erosion control at water's edge. Birds and other animals eat the fruits. It is resistant to damage by deer. Literature recommends that the fruits are fully ripe and cooked before consumption by people. They are used to make jams, pie fillings and syrups.