American Elderberry
sambucus canadensis
Also known as: ["American Elder","Common Elderberry"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to North America, known for its clusters of small white flowers and dark purple berries.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Adoxaceae |
| Genus: | Sambucus |
| Botanical Name: | Sambucus canadensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: garden bed or large container in open space
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–34–38°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if rejuvenation is needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers/fruits.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent leaf scorch.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently in dry conditions
Water thoroughly until runoff; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
rich, moist, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Test soil pH annually; amend with organic matter in spring; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–7; tolerates temperatures down to -30°F (-34°C); prefers cool winters and moderate summers.
Protect from late spring frosts; water deeply before cold snaps; avoid placing near heat sources in winter.
Fertilizing
annually in early spring with balanced slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; water thoroughly after applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in summer; division in early spring; seeds (stratification required for germination).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer for cuttings; early spring for division; autumn for seed stratification.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C); partial shade for cuttings.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; well-draining soil for division.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for cuttings to improve success rate.
Timeline
Cuttings root in 4–8 weeks; division establishes in 1–2 growing seasons; seeds germinate in 1–2 years after stratification.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to remove entire branches; heading cuts to shorten branches; selective removal of weak or crossing stems.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or diseased wood annually; shape the plant to encourage airflow; thin out crowded branches to improve light penetration.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts just above buds or branches; remove debris after pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or fruiting periods.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm) in diameter; ensure adequate drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water well after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for weather conditions.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; ensure water penetrates deeply to encourage deep roots; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or wilting in excessive heat; delayed bud break or dieback in cold stress; reduced flowering in overly warm conditions.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn brown or black; buds may fail to open; stems may become brittle and break easily.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base to insulate roots; protect from harsh winds; avoid pruning in late autumn to prevent frost damage.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow; flowers may fade quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to keep roots cool.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil nutrient levels; apply fertilizer at recommended rates; water after fertilizing; monitor for signs of over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicSambucus canadensis is toxic to cats, with all parts of the plant containing cyanogenic glycosides that can cause cyanide poisoning. Cats are particularly sensitive to cyanide, and ingestion can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and systemic toxicity, potentially resulting in respiratory failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicAll parts of Sambucus canadensis, except properly cooked berries, are toxic to dogs. The plant contains cyanogenic glycosides, which can lead to cyanide poisoning in dogs upon ingestion. This can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and systemic toxicity, potentially leading to respiratory failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Sambucus canadensis are generally considered edible when properly cooked, but raw berries can cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Other parts of the plant, such as leaves, stems, and roots, contain cyanogenic glycosides which can release cyanide upon ingestion, leading to toxicity. The physiological impact is primarily gastrointestinal distress and, in severe cases, systemic toxicity due to cyanide release.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are elderberries edible?
A: Yes, the ripe berries are edible and commonly used for jams, syrups, and wine, but unripe berries and other parts of the plant are mildly toxic.
Q: Does Sambucus canadensis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and berries.
Q: How should I care for American Elderberry?
A: Plant in full sun to partial shade, water regularly, and prune in late winter to maintain shape and encourage fruiting.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Adoxaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
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