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
Habitats | Upland Prairie and Savanna, Riparian Forests, Mixed Hardwood-Conifer Forest or Woodland |
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Mature Height | 12’ |
Shade Preference | full sun, part shade, shade |
Soil Tolerance | Well-drained soils |
Special Uses | Attracts insects, bees and butterflies; Attracts birds; Attracts hummingbirds; Provides wildlife forage, cover and food; Ornamental; Deer resistant |