Elderberry

Sambucus canadensis

Family:
Caprifoliaceae

Lifecycle:
Perennial

Native or Introduced:
Native

Nutrient Removal Rating:
Low

Wildlife Value:
Medium - High

Invasiveness:
Low

Rooted or Floating:
Rooted

Site Requirements:
Full sun to part shade

Maximum Water Depth:
6 inches

Plant Description:
Elderberry is a deciduous, woody, semi-aquatic tree that grows from 10 to 15 feet in height. It grows rapidly and creates thickets using a suckering root system.

Foliage is a compound leaf with 5, 7, or 9 leaflets.  Flat toppred round flowers are white to cream in color and emerge from late April through July, and berries that are purple to black follow from July through August.

Elderberry is a native to the eastern US and is commonly found in swamp forests and wet pastures.