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Images of elderberries9/26/2023 Zones: 3-7 Dwarf elderberry ( Sambucus ebulus): The fruit often causes stomach upset in many people. Grows 8 to 12 feet tall, with a broad, arching form. The fruit is less palatable than that of others, but is still very attractive to birds. Red elderberry ( Sambucus racemosa):Ī more cold-tolerant species often selected as an ornamental because of its attractive red berries and dense, erosion-preventing root systems. Creamy yellow flowers in the spring are followed by dark bluish-purple berries in fall. Native to western North America, from Oregon to Baja all the way to western Texas, it thrives in a wide range of climates. Sometimes classified as a tree rather than a shrub, this type grows to a height of up to 30 feet. Zones: 4-8 Blue elderberry ( Sambucus nigra ssp. The cultivars of this species have become popular garden plants, with many featuring smaller growth habits, purple or variegated foliage, and double flowers. Zones: 3-9 Black elderberry ( Sambucus nigra):Īlso called "European elderberry", it is similar to the American variety but often taller (up to 20 feet) and has an earlier bloom season. It spreads by suckers and can be a vigorous grower, so it’s best suited for naturalizing or mass plantings. It grows to a height of 8 to 12 feet and has large flat-topped clusters of white flowers that emerge in profusion in midsummer, followed by purple-black fruit in late summer and early fall. On this page: The Basics | Types | Planting and Growing | Pruning Tips | Pictures | Garden UsesĬommon elderberry ( Sambucus canadensis):Īlso called “American black elderberry”, this woodland species is native from eastern and central Canada to the southern U.S. Providing food and shelter for many species of songbirds and nectar for pollinating insects, elderberries can turn any garden into a beautiful wildlife sanctuary. In addition to their ornamental qualities, they are a valuable contributor to the ecosystem. All can be attractive additions to the garden.” “Today there are numerous cultivars with attractive foliage in green, near black, or yellow and flowers in white, pink, or gold. “Unfortunately, few people think of the elderberry as an ornamental shrub that would bring beauty to their property,” says Sandy Helsel, of the Herb Society of America. You may have seen elderberries laden with clusters of dark purple berries growing in the wild along roadsides, woodlands and streambanks, but never considered growing them yourself. Photo by Proven Winners.Įlton John may sing about “feeling fine on elderberry wine,” but the shrub that bears that intoxicating fruit offers many other attributes that gardeners can feel good about.
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