Sambucus (Elderberry)


Botanical Information

FamilyAdoxaceae (Caprifoliaceae)
GenusSambucus
CategoryWoody
TypeShrub (deciduous)
OriginNative to North America and Central Europe.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone3-8
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone4
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH4-H7
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-40- (-6.7)
Temperature (°F)-40-20
Height2-4 m
Flowering PeriodMay, June, July, August, September

Description and Growing Information

PropagationPropagated from cuttings.
CultivationGrows best with rich, nitrogen rich soils and part to full sun.
HabitatHabitats include river-bottoms, moist meadows in woodlands, open woodlands, woodland borders, thickets, shrubby areas and open fields.
Bark/Stem DescriptionThe bark is grey/brown with multi-stemmed branches.
Leaf DescriptionLeaves are arranged in an opposite arrangement. They are dark green and 5-30 cm long and serrated edges.
Flower DescriptionFlowers are white/cream and grow in large clusters, about 4-6 mm across.
Fruit DescriptionThe round fruit is dark purple and contains 3-5 seeds.

Photographs