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Elderberry

Sambucus Canadensis

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Overview

Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis), a versatile North American native, features clusters of small white-to-cream flowers in spring, which mature into dark purple berries coveted by wildlife. This deciduous shrub grows to 5-12 feet high and wide, thriving in full sun to partial shade. It adapts to a range of soil conditions, preferring moist, well-drained sites. Ideal for naturalized settings, it offers culinary value and supports pollinators. Zones 3-9.

Sun Full, HalfWater High, MediumZones 3–9Type ShrubClimate Alpine, Temperate
Elderberry (Sambucus Canadensis) — but can benefit from occasional pruning to maintain shape and encourage fruit production

Culture

Sun
Full, Half
Water
High, Medium
USDA zones
3–9

Shape & size

Mature width
5–6 Ft.

Classification

Type
Shrub
Family
Caprifoliaceae
Climate
Alpine, Temperate

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Photos (101)

Elderberry (Sambucus Canadensis) — In the late spring to early summer; shrub for full or half
Elderberry (Sambucus Canadensis) — shrub for full or half; while also providing potential edible yields for the homeowner
Elderberry (Sambucus Canadensis) — This deciduous shrub grows to 5-12 feet high and wide, thriving in full sun to partial shade; white flowers in the garden
Elderberry (Sambucus Canadensis) — By late summer to early fall; a versatile North American native, image 70
Elderberry (Sambucus Canadensis) — commonly 6 to 10 inches in diameter
Elderberry (Sambucus Canadensis) — attracting beneficial insects and wildlife, image 50
Elderberry (Sambucus Canadensis) — a versatile North American native; this deciduous shrub grows to 5-12 feet high and wide, thriving in full sun, image 55
Elderberry (Sambucus Canadensis) — and wines.<br><br>Elderberry plants prefer a location with full sun to partial shade and moist; incorporating elderberries
Elderberry (Sambucus Canadensis) — white flowers in the garden; the plant thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 9
Sambucus Canadensis
Sambucus Canadensis
Sambucus Canadensis
Sambucus Canadensis
Sambucus Canadensis
Sambucus Canadensis
Sambucus Canadensis
Sambucus Canadensis
Sambucus Canadensis
Sambucus Canadensis
Sambucus Canadensis
Sambucus Canadensis
Sambucus Canadensis
Sambucus Canadensis
Sambucus Canadensis
Photographs by 5 contributors

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