American Elderberries (Sambucus canadensis)
American Elderberry is a vigorous, multi-stemmed native shrub prized for its abundant clusters of fragrant white flowers, bountiful berry harvests, and exceptional wildlife value. This fast-growing deciduous plant reaches 8-12 feet tall and wide, forming attractive spreading colonies through root suckers that create natural hedgerows or permaculture guild plantings.
In early summer, large flat-topped umbels of creamy white blossoms attract pollinators and can be harvested for making traditional elderflower cordials and syrups, followed by heavy crops of dark purple-black berries in late summer. The cooked berries are rich in antioxidants and make exceptional jams, syrups, pies, and wines, while providing critical food for songbirds and other wildlife. American Elderberry thrives in moist, fertile soils with full sun to partial shade and tolerates wet conditions that challenge many fruit crops.
While self-fertile, planting multiple varieties significantly increases yields, making this adaptable native an excellent choice for edible landscapes, restoration projects, and productive homesteads across USDA Zones 3-9.
American Elderberries (Sambucus canadensis)
American Elderberry is a vigorous, multi-stemmed native shrub prized for its abundant clusters of fragrant white flowers, bountiful berry harvests, and exceptional wildlife value. This fast-growing deciduous plant reaches 8-12 feet tall and wide, forming attractive spreading colonies through root suckers that create natural hedgerows or permaculture guild plantings.
In early summer, large flat-topped umbels of creamy white blossoms attract pollinators and can be harvested for making traditional elderflower cordials and syrups, followed by heavy crops of dark purple-black berries in late summer. The cooked berries are rich in antioxidants and make exceptional jams, syrups, pies, and wines, while providing critical food for songbirds and other wildlife. American Elderberry thrives in moist, fertile soils with full sun to partial shade and tolerates wet conditions that challenge many fruit crops.
While self-fertile, planting multiple varieties significantly increases yields, making this adaptable native an excellent choice for edible landscapes, restoration projects, and productive homesteads across USDA Zones 3-9.
