shrubN. America Native

American Elderberry

Sambucus canadensis

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

144 inches

Width

144 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium to wet

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

15-20 years

Native To

Eastern and Central North America

Toxicity

Stems, leaves, roots, and unripe berries are toxic. Ripe berries are edible only when cooked.

The Story

Plant Bio

Sambucus canadensis is a large, fast-growing, suckering deciduous shrub native to North America. It produces large, flat-topped clusters of fragrant white flowers followed by dark purple to black berries. As the straight species, this plant is valued for its robust nature and significant wildlife value, providing nectar for pollinators and fruit for birds and mammals. The berries and flowers are also edible when properly prepared.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Offers multi-season interest with large, creamy-white flower cymes in summer, followed by drooping clusters of dark, dramatic berries in fall. Its large, compound leaves create a lush, tropical effect in the landscape.

The flowers can be used to make cordials and fritters, while the cooked berries are famous for making jams, jellies, pies, and wine. It can be used to create a fast-growing, informal screen or hedge.

A keystone species for wildlife. The flowers provide abundant nectar for native bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The fruit is a critical food source for dozens of species of birds and small mammals.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with full sun and moist, well-drained soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Amend soil with compost to improve fertility and moisture retention.
Set the plant at the same depth it was in the container.
Backfill the hole and water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch to conserve moisture.

Pro Tip

For best fruit production, plant at least two different cultivars to ensure good cross-pollination, though the species itself is somewhat self-fertile.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially during establishment.
Prune annually in late winter to remove dead or weak canes.
Allow space for the plant to spread via suckers, or remove them.
Harvest berries only when fully ripe and dark in color.

Don't

Do not ingest any part of the plant raw, except for the flowers.
Don't allow the soil to completely dry out for extended periods.
Avoid planting in deep shade, which reduces flowering and fruiting.
Don't worry about perfect soil; it's highly adaptable.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Harvest
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Productive wildlife and pollinator hedgeNaturalistic planting for moist areasInformal cottage garden background shrub

Companion Plants

Aronia arbutifolia Cephalanthus occidentalis Hibiscus moscheutos Asclepias incarnata Eutrochium purpureum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

American Elderberry questions

What zones can American Elderberry grow in?

American Elderberry is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is American Elderberry deer resistant?

Yes — American Elderberry is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does American Elderberry bloom?

American Elderberry typically blooms in early summer through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does American Elderberry need full sun?

American Elderberry does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.