Sambucus canadensis/Elderberry

Mocking bird feeding on elderberry fruit in late summer
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Scientific Name:	Sambucus canadensis
Common Name:	Elderberry
Plant Type:	Deciduous
Leaf Type:	Broadleaf
Hardiness Zone:	7, 8, 9, 10 Determine Your Zone
Height:	5-8 feet
Spread:	5 - 10 feet
Bloom time:	Summer, Fall
Flower color:	White
Fruit present:	Summer, Fall
Fruit color:	Purple, Black
Light Exposure:	Sun, Part Sun, Filtered Shade, Morning sun
Drainage:	Well drained, Moist, Wet,
Rate of Growth:	Fast
Water Requirement:	Medium
Maintenance Level:	Low
Susceptible to insects and diseases:	No

Comments:	Elderberry is classified as a large shrub or even a small deciduous tree in the Lower South. It tolerates a wide range of growing conditions from wet to dry. Size depends on the length of the growing season and the amount of moisture available. It suckers freely and sends up plants around a large mature specimen. Large flat white flower heads can be present from spring through autumn and are followed by large clusters of purple to black berries that are eaten by several species of birds. It is a prolific self-seeder with elderberry plants appearing among the first on disturbed sites. Plants are short lived.