This native shrub has been known for its delicious fruit used in jellies, pies or wine since native American times. It has more recently been used in landscapes for its spectacular blossoms and dramatically colored berries. It is probably best known for it's medicinal uses over many generations.
According to
WebMD, the berries and flowers of elderberry are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that may boost your immune system. They could help tame inflammation, lessen stress, and help protect your heart, too. Some experts recommend elderberry to help prevent and ease cold and flu symptoms.
It’s also been used as a treatment for: Constipation, joint and muscle pain, infections that affect how you breathe, headaches, fever, kidney problems, epilepsy, minor skin conditions, stress, HIV and AIDS
It is closely related to the European Sambucus nigra. Some authors treat it as conspecific, under the name Sambucus nigra subsp. canadensis. The primary difference is the European variety is more tree like, where the American variety is more shrublike, the flowers, fruits and uses are almost identical. Some authorities consider this plant to be a subspecies or variety of Sambucus nigra instead of a separate species.
Elderberry erupts with large, lacey sprays of white blossom clusters in June. As the flowers continue to bloom, they fill in to create large umbels and exude a delicate citrusy fragrance, inviting myriads of little pollinators to come visit. Flowers are replaced by succulent, burgundy berries that darken to a rich black-purple once they are ripe. Bowed branches drape and 'water fountain' from the center, providing dense shelter for nesting birds. The foliage turns a lovely burnished yellow in the fall.
Various studies reported in food and horticulture scientific journals report that American elderberry as well as the European elder contain antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties. According to the USDA, raw elderberry juice is a good source of iron and potassium and vitamins A, B6 and C.
Elderberry plants are easy to grow and can be grown from cuttings or potted plants. They prefer moist, fertile soil and full sun, but can tolerate partial shade and some drought. They can be grown in zones 3-9.
Seeds need 60 days
cold stratification before sowing.