Elderberry
Sambucus canadensis
Adoxaceae · Shrub
Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) is one of the most widely grown shrubs for USDA zones 3-9. It thrives in full sun to partial shade with moderate water and low upkeep, making it a dependable choice for home gardeners.
- · Give it full sun to partial shade and space to reach 6-12 ft.
- · Water at a moderate rate and let the soil drain freely.
- · Feed in spring and tidy up dead growth to keep it productive.
Serving Ideas
Eaten fresh, baked into desserts, or cooked into jams and sauces.
Recommended: grow and source this plant without synthetic chemicals or pesticides, and rinse thoroughly before eating.
IMPORTANT: please verify food safety independently. Errors and omissions may occur.
At a glance
- Growing zones: 3-9
- Sun: Full sun to partial shade
- Water: Moderate
- Maintenance: Low
- Type: Shrub
- Mature size: 6-12 ft tall · 3-8 ft wide
- Bloom season: Early summer · White
- Pollinator friendly: Yes
- Container suitable: Best in ground
- Cold tolerance: Hardy to -40F
- Heat tolerance: Good
- Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil
- Growth rate: Moderate
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