Latin: Sambucus caerulea
Plant type: Deciduous shrub or small tree
Size: 10’-25’ x 10’-25’
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Drought tolerant to moderate water
Zone: 6 to 10
Wild looking in its natural state, the Blue Elderberry is a fast-growing, multi-trunked large shrub or small tree that with pruning can be trained into a more garden-appropriate plant. The leaves are divided into 1”-6” long toothed leaflets. Large clusters of creamy white flowers occur in spring and summer, followed by dense clusters of blue to black berries. The flowers and berries attract bees and an amazing number of birds and other wildlife. The berries are edible to humans and are used in jams and pies and for making wine. [18]
Blue Elderberry tolerates many types of soil and cultural conditions and is relatively easy to grow. Plants in full sun produce more flowers and berries than those in shady conditions. It is drought tolerant, but holds its leaves longer and looks better with moderate summer irrigation. Hard pruning each winter will keep Blue Elderberry manageable and attractive. Plants that have grown out of control can be cut back completely. [25]
Used often in revegetation projects for its wildlife and habitat value, Blue Elderberry is protected because it is the host plant to the Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle, which is listed as a federally Threatened Species. It is also useful in the garden setting as a screen or windbreak.
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