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American Elderberry — Sambucus nigra ssp. canadensis
Bees
Butterflies
New York Native

American Elderberry

Sambucus nigra ssp. canadensis

Shrub

American Elderberry

Sambucus nigra ssp. canadensis

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Growing Conditions

Light Light Sun – Part Shade
Water Water Moist – Medium
Soil Soil Clay, Loam
Size Size 5-12'
Bloom Bloom White, Jun–Jul

Why Grow It

Fast Growing Establishes and fills in quickly
Wildlife Food Berries & seeds feed birds and wildlife
Caterpillar Host Feeds caterpillars of native moths & butterflies

Did You Know?

All parts of elderberry except ripe, cooked berries are toxic. Raw berries cause nausea — always cook before consuming. The cooked berries make excellent jams, pies, and wine.
Huge flat-topped flower heads can be battered and fried as elderflower fritters.
Elderberry extract is a popular immune-boosting supplement with centuries of traditional use.

Wildlife Value

🐦
Over 50 Bird Species Berries are eaten by catbirds, thrushes, woodpeckers, and dozens more
🦋
Pollinator Haven Large flower heads attract butterflies, native bees, and beneficial wasps

Good Companions

🌸 Joe Pye Weed 🌿 Red Osier Dogwood ⭐ Buttonbush

Planting Guide

  1. Plant in full sun to part shade in moist, fertile soil
  2. Space 6–8″ apart; plant two varieties for best berry production
  3. Prune out dead wood in late winter; grows fast and recovers quickly

Heads Up

Toxic to Humans Keep away from children

Plant Details

American Elderberry detail
American Elderberry detail
American Elderberry detail
American Elderberry detail
American Elderberry detail
Made with ♥ by Lu Li