Elderberry (Sambucus nigra ssp. canadensis)

Elderberry

Sambucus nigra ssp. canadensis

Other Common Names: American Elderberry, Common Elderberry

Top Pick: A fast-growing native shrub that provides flowers, fruit, and habitat while thriving in moist conditions.

Quick Plant Info

• ☀️ Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• 💧 Water: Medium
• 🌿 Type: Shrub
• 📏 Mature Size: 6–12 ft tall × 6–12 ft wide

Description

A fast-growing native shrub with showy white flowers and dark berries that support wildlife and can be used in cooking.

Elderberry produces clusters of white blooms in spring followed by dark berries in summer. It thrives in moist soils and is often found along streams and low areas.

🌼 Why it works

• Supports birds, pollinators, and overall habitat
• Produces edible fruit (when properly prepared)
• Fast-growing and adaptable
• Excellent for rain gardens and low areas

🐦 Wildlife value

Flowers support pollinators, while berries provide an important food source for birds.

Offers cover and contributes to habitat structure.

🌱 Where it thrives

Best in full sun to part shade with moist soil. It performs well in rain gardens, along drainage areas, and in naturalized plantings.

• Rain gardens and low areas
• Habitat plantings
• Naturalized landscapes

Soil: Prefers moist, fertile soil but adapts to a range of conditions.

✂️ Growth & maintenance

Prune as needed to manage size and shape. May spread by suckering over time.

💧 Water (establishment note)

Water regularly during establishment; once established, Elderberry prefers consistent moisture and performs best in wetter conditions.

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