American Black Elderberry

Enhance Your Garden with the Versatile and Beautiful American Black Elderberry

Introduce a touch of natural beauty and functionality to your garden with the American Black Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis). This hardy, deciduous shrub is celebrated for its ornamental appeal and practical benefits.

Key Features:

• Pollinator Friendly: The lush clusters of tiny white flowers that bloom in early summer are a magnet for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, promoting a vibrant and healthy garden ecosystem.
• Edible & Medicinal Uses: Come late summer to fall, the shrub produces dark purple berries renowned for their rich antioxidant content. These berries are traditionally used in teas, syrups, jams, and wellness tonics. Please note: Berries should only be consumed when fully ripe and cooked, as raw berries can be mildly toxic.
• Wildlife Attraction: Beyond pollinators, the berries serve as a valuable food source for various bird species, enhancing biodiversity in your garden.
• Low Maintenance: Adaptable to various soil types, the American Black Elderberry is resistant to heat, drought, and compact soils, making it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a resilient yet attractive addition to their landscape.

Plant Specifications:

• Size: Matures to a height of 10-12 feet with a spread of 6-8 feet, providing a substantial presence in the garden.
• Light Requirements: Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages optimal flowering and fruit production.
• Hardiness Zone: Suitable for USDA Zones 3-9, showcasing its adaptability to a wide range of climates.
• Soil Preferences: Prefers moist, loamy, well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. However, it can tolerate a variety of soil conditions, including clay soils, provided there is good drainage.

Planting and Care Tips:

• Planting: Spring is ideal for planting. Space plants approximately 6-10 feet apart to allow for mature growth. Ensure the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface. Water thoroughly after planting to establish strong roots.
• Watering: While established plants exhibit drought tolerance, regular watering during dry spells promotes better fruit production. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, in early spring to support vigorous growth and abundant berry production. Alternatively, incorporating organic compost around the base can enhance soil fertility.
• Pruning: Conduct annual pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove dead or damaged canes and thin out older stems to encourage the development of new, fruitful canes. This practice enhances air circulation and overall plant health.
• Cross-Pollination: While the American Black Elderberry is self-fertile, planting another elderberry variety nearby can significantly boost fruit production through cross-pollination.

Safety Note: Only consume berries that are fully ripe and have been cooked. Unripe or raw berries, as well as other parts of the plant, contain compounds that can be toxic if ingested.

By incorporating the American Black Elderberry into your garden, you not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also contribute to local biodiversity and enjoy the benefits of homegrown, healthful berries. Its combination of beauty, utility, and ease of care makes it a rewarding choice for gardeners of all experience levels.

Please note: this product is fulfilled and shipped by our trusted affiliate, Tristar Plants. Pricing and availability are subject to change at the discretion of our affiliate partner.