description Common Elderberry Overview
Common elderberry, Sambucus canadensis, is a deciduous, multi-stemmed shrub native to eastern and central North America. Broad, flat-topped clusters of small white flowers appear in early summer and are followed by dark purple to black fruits eaten by many birds. The cooked flowers and ripe fruits are used in syrups, preserves, and wine, but raw or unripe plant material can cause illness and should not be treated as freely edible.
help Common Elderberry FAQ
What is the scientific name of common elderberry?
Common elderberry is Sambucus canadensis. It is a deciduous, multi-stemmed shrub native to eastern and central North America.
When do common elderberry flowers and berries appear?
Small white flowers form broad, flat-topped clusters in early summer. Dark purple to black fruits follow the flowers and are eaten by many birds.
Can you eat common elderberries straight from the bush?
Elderberries are commonly cooked before eating, because raw or undercooked berries can cause stomach upset. The dark color of Sambucus canadensis fruit does not mean it is ready to eat uncooked.
Do birds eat common elderberry fruit?
Yes. The dark fruits of Sambucus canadensis are eaten by many birds, making the shrub useful in wildlife plantings. Its multi-stemmed growth also gives it a distinctive shrub form.
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