Native Plant Trust

Sambucus nigra

black elderberry, American elder (Sambucus canadensis)

With wandering branches, broad corymbs of fluffy white flowers, and a beautiful late-season crop of dark berries, this shrub is as pleasing to wildlife as it is to humans. The fruit is edible, but should be cooked, dried, or fermented prior to consumption.

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Height: 5-8 ft
Spread: 3-8 ft
Hardiness Zone: 4-9


Bloom Color: White

Characteristics & Attributes

Cultivation Status
Species
Exposure
Part Shade
Soil Moisture
Wet
Ecoregion
(82) Acadian Plains and Hills
(58) Northeastern Highlands
(83) Eastern Great Lakes Lowlands
(59) Northeastern Coastal Zone
(84) Atlantic Coastal Pine Barrens
Ornamental Interest
Spring Bloom
Summer Fruit
Attracts Wildlife
Other Pollinators/Wildlife
Host Plant
Attracts Songbirds
Attracts Bees
Attracts Butterflies
Tolerance
Compaction Tolerant
Urban Environment
Salt Tolerant
Additional Attributes
Edible
Low Maintenance
Landscape Use
Hedge/screening
Massing
Specimen
Rain Garden
Naturalize
Attractive Fall Foliage and/or Ornamental Fruit
Purple to Black Fruit


North American Distribution


black elderberry - Sambucus nigra from Native Plant Trust
black elderberry - Sambucus nigra from Native Plant Trust
black elderberry - Sambucus nigra from Native Plant Trust