$18.00
Common Elderberry
Sambucus canadensis
A vigorous native shrub known for its large flat clusters of creamy white flowers that bloom in early to mid summer. These fragrant blossoms attract a wide range of pollinators including bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects.
By late summer, the flowers develop into heavy clusters of deep purple to black berries that hang in drooping sprays. These berries are an important food source for birds and wildlife and have long been valued for culinary uses such as syrups, jams, and wines when properly prepared.
A Highly Productive Native Shrub
Common Elderberry grows quickly and forms dense colonies through suckering stems. Its broad canopy and lush foliage create excellent habitat and shelter for birds and small animals.
Because of its productivity and ecological value, it is widely planted in wildlife gardens, edible landscapes, and habitat restoration projects.
A Plant of Wet Meadows and Stream Edges
Common Elderberry grows naturally along stream banks, wetlands, moist meadows, and forest edges where soils remain rich and moist. It thrives in full sun to part shade and tolerates periodic flooding.
Its strong root system helps stabilize soil while its flowers and berries support a wide diversity of wildlife.
Growing Information
Height: 6–12 ft
Spread: 6–10 ft
Light: Full sun to part shade
Soil: Moist to wet soils
Hardiness: Zone 3–9
Growth Rate: Fast
Best planted in hedgerows, wet meadow plantings, wildlife gardens, and naturalized landscapes.
Ecological Importance
Common Elderberry:
Provides abundant nectar for bees and pollinating insects
Produces berries eaten by many bird species
Creates shelter and nesting habitat for wildlife
Helps stabilize soils along wetlands and stream edges
Associated Wet Meadow & Woodland Edge Species
Common companions in natural plant communities include:
• Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata)
• Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium maculatum)
• Blue Flag Iris (Iris versicolor)
• New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)
• Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum)
• Blue Vervain (Verbena hastata)
• Culver’s Root (Veronicastrum virginicum)
Planting these species together helps recreate resilient wet meadow and riparian ecosystems that support pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects.
Planting to Protect
Restoring to Thrive 🌱
Origin Native Plants 🌱
3.5 inch Pots 🌱
