shrubN. America Native

Adams American Elder

Sambucus canadensis 'Adams'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

120 inches

Width

120 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium to wet

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Deciduous shrub

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Unripe berries, leaves, stems are toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Sambucus canadensis, the American Elder, is a large, fast-growing, suckering deciduous shrub native to North America. It is known for its large, flat-topped clusters of fragrant white flowers followed by dark purple-black berries. 'Adams' is a classic, highly productive cultivar selected for its exceptionally large flower cymes and heavy crops of large, flavorful berries. It is a reliable choice for making jams, jellies, and wine.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Offers multi-season interest with large, fragrant flower clusters in summer, lush compound foliage, and attractive clusters of dark berries in fall.

The berries are widely used to make delicious and healthful jams, jellies, pies, and wines. The flowers can be fried as fritters or used to make cordials.

Provides significant wildlife value. The flowers are a nectar source for pollinators, and the fruit is a vital food source for dozens of bird species and other wildlife.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site in full sun with moist, well-drained soil.
Dig a hole twice the width of the container.
Incorporate compost into the backfill soil for added nutrients.
Set the plant at the same depth it was in its nursery pot.
Water deeply after planting to settle the soil.
Mulch with 2-3 inches of organic matter to retain moisture.

Pro Tip

For best fruit production, plant another Sambucus canadensis cultivar like 'York' nearby for cross-pollination.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially during establishment and fruiting.
Prune annually to remove old, unproductive canes and encourage new growth.
Plant a second variety to ensure good cross-pollination and fruit set.
Control suckers to prevent unwanted spreading.

Don't

Do not allow the soil to dry out completely for extended periods.
Avoid consuming raw or unripe berries, as they are toxic.
Don't prune out all the new canes; fruit is produced on second-year wood.
Do not plant in deep shade, as this will reduce flowering and fruiting.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Harvest
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Productive edible landscape shrubFast-growing naturalistic hedge or screenWildlife-attracting woodland garden specimen

Companion Plants

Aronia arbutifolia Viburnum trilobum Cornus sericea Physocarpus opulifolius Rudbeckia hirta

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Adams American Elder questions

What zones can Adams American Elder grow in?

Adams American Elder 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 Adams American Elder deer resistant?

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

When does Adams American Elder bloom?

Adams American Elder 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 Adams American Elder need full sun?

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