Sambucus canadensis

Sambucus canadensis, commonly known as the American elder, is a species of elderberry native to a large area of North America east of the Rocky Mountains, and south through eastern Mexico and Central America to Panama. It grows in a variety of conditions including both wet and dry soils, primarily in sunny locations.

Description[edit | edit source]

Sambucus canadensis is a deciduous shrub growing to 3 m (10 ft) tall. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs, pinnate with five to nine leaflets, the leaflets around 10 cm long and 5 cm broad. In summer, it bears large (20–30 cm diameter) corymbs of white flowers above the foliage, the individual flowers 5–6 mm diameter, with five petals. The fruit is a dark purple to black berry 3–5 mm diameter, produced in drooping clusters in the fall.

Uses[edit | edit source]

The berries of Sambucus canadensis are edible when cooked and are used to make wines, jellies, spreads, and other culinary preparations. The flowers are often used to make an herbal tea. The plant is also used in traditional medicine, particularly in the treatment of colds and flu.

Cultivation[edit | edit source]

Sambucus canadensis is cultivated as an ornamental plant, for its flowers, fruits, and lacy foliage. It is also used in wildlife gardens and natural landscaping projects due to its ability to attract birds and butterflies.