ELDERBERRY AMERICAN

Latin Name: Sambucus canadensis

Description: This multi-stemmed deciduous shrub features arching branched clad in compound, serrated, bright-green foliage adorned with seven leaflets. Large, rounded panicles of lemony-scented, tiny ivory flowers with dangling pale yellow anthers appear in the early summer. These lovely blossoms transform into clusters of round, black, elderberry fruits later in the growing season, which are quite attractive to wildlife. The fruits are edible when cooked, oftentimes used to create jams, jellies, and elderberry wines. A truly stunning native plant, prized both for its beauty and its fruits. Prefers medium to wet, well-draining soils, displays best foliage colour when planted in full sun. Spreads freely by root suckers. Prune hard in the early spring to maintain best growth habit. All parts of the plant are toxic when ingested raw.

Zone: 3
Height: 150cm-3.7m
Spread: 150cm-3.7m
Shape: Mounding
Sun or Shade: Full Sun to Partial Sun
Foliage: Compound, serrated, bright-green foliage adorned with seven leaflets
Fall Colour: Compound foliage turns bright yellow in the fall
Flower type: Large, rounded panicles of lemony-scented, tiny ivory flowers with dangling pale yellow anthers appear in the early summer