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Blue Elderberry | Sambucus caerulea

Deciduous large shrub that grows up to 20′ tall with soft pithy twigs and dark blue-brown bark. Its leaves are large, divided into 5-7 leaflets that are sharply toothed. It has creamy white flowers that grow in dense rounded clusters. It produces bright blue berry-like drupes that are valuable to birds and wildlife. Fast growing handsome shrub. Berries are edible when ripe.

 

Plant Details

HabitatsUpland Prairie and Savanna, Riparian Forests, Mixed Hardwood-Conifer Forest or Woodland
Mature Height12’
Shade Preferencefull sun, part shade, shade
Soil ToleranceWell-drained soils
Special UsesAttracts insects, bees and butterflies; Attracts birds; Attracts hummingbirds; Provides wildlife forage, cover and food; Ornamental; Deer resistant