American Elder

At least 50 species of songbirds, upland game birds, and small mammals relish the fruit of American elder during summer and early fall.

American Elder is fast-growing shrub is known for its large clusters of yellowish-white, star-shaped flowers. Grown as a border, it provides an incredible summer floral display. The dark purple elderberries are used to make jellies, pies, juice, and wine and also to attract a variety of different bird species. To ensure a good crop, plant more than one shrub.

Quick Growing Guide

Botanical Name: Sambucus canadensis

Also Called: White Elder, Common Elderberry, Sureau du Canada, Sirop blanc.

En français: Sureau blanc

Colour:

• White

Sun / Shade:

• Full Sun
• Partial Sun

Water: Need for lots of water.

Soil:

• Adaptable
• Moist
• Well drained

Height:

• Up to 35 feet (4 to 10 meters)

Pollinators:

• Birds

Hardiness Zones:

• 4
• 5
• 6
• 7
• 8
• 9

Best Soil: Does best in moist, humous soils, but will tolerate dry soils and is pH adaptable.

Its natural habitat: Low ground, thickets, edges of woods, roadsides, fence rows, rich moist lowlands..

Caring for American Elder

Transplants easily. Clusters of white flowers in July. Edible purple-black berries.

Companion plant suggestions include Shrub borders, roadside plantings, native plants