Sambucus canadensis

Deciduous shrub

Plant in fall or spring; blooms in spring and summer

Full sun to partial shade (4–6+ hours of sunlight)

60–75°F (15–24°C)

Moist, well-draining soil; tolerates clay, loam, and sandy soils

3–9 (USDA)

Seeds require cold stratification (60–90 days)

5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Water regularly, especially during the first year to establish roots. Mature plants are somewhat drought-tolerant but benefit from supplemental watering during dry periods, especially when fruiting

Benefits from organic mulch and balanced fertilizer in early spring

Upright, multi-stemmed, spreading shrub

Can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, or suckers

5–12 ft

5–10 ft

Creamy white, fragrant, flat-topped clusters (May-June)

Bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators

Edible berries (used in jams, jellies, syrups, and wines), ornamental landscaping, erosion control and wildlife habitat, traditional medicinal applications

Wildflowers, native grasses, other shrubs like serviceberry (Amelanchier), and viburnum

Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead/diseased wood and encourage new growth

Raw berries, stems, leaves, and roots contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can be toxic if consumed in large quantities. Cooked berries are generally safe

Aphids, elderberry borers, Japanese beetles, spider mites

Canker, powdery mildew, and leaf spot can occur

Native Americans and early settlers used elderberry flowers and berries for medicinal teas and remedies