Description

Black elderberry is a loose, graceful, fast-growing shrub with both woody and herbaceous branches. Multiple long stems arise from the base, arching at the top. Broad, white pith is easily removed. Pinnately-compound leaves. Lemon-scented white flowers are tiny and grow in flat-topped, frothy clusters. Dark purple drupes appear in clusters in August. Berries are relished by many bird species and mammals. Birds and bees use elderberry as nesting habitat. The early summer flowers provide an important source of nectar for native bees. It supports beneficial insects. What a great plant! Tolerates a wide range of soils, but prefers moist, humusy ones. Spreads by root suckers to form colonies. Elderberry can be pruned to maintain a smaller size if desired, but it’s easier to give it room and let it grow! Elderberry blooms on new growth, so prune if desired in late winter or early spring.  A rejuvenation pruning every five to eight years will keep elderberry productive for many years. (Cut one-third of the oldest, thickest stems to the ground each year for three years.) Height: 5-12 ft. Spread: 5-12 ft. Family: Adoxaceae Bloom time: June to July Sun: full sun to part shade Water: medium to wet Rain garden According to Rutgers University, Sambucus is “seldom severely damaged” by deer. photo credit: H. Zell