Elderberry

Sambucus nigra

Elderberry is a bush with clusters of tiny white flowers and dark berries. It's known for making yummy jams!

Habitat: Woodlands and riverbanks

Appearance

The Elderberry has large, flat-topped clusters of tiny, creamy-white flowers that mature into abundant bunches of small, dark purple-black berries. Its leaves are typically green and compound, giving the shrub a dense, leafy appearance distinct from single-leafed shrubs.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderDipsacalesFamilyAdoxaceaeGenusSambucus

Elderberry

Interesting facts

Elderberries have been used to create beautiful purple and blue dyes for fabrics.

Hollow elderberry stems were traditionally used to make flutes and whistles!

Some ancient cultures believed elder trees could ward off evil spirits.

The tiny flowers are so fragrant, they can be used to make delicious cordials.

Special abilities

Elderberry produces many sweet berries that attract birds, helping it spread its seeds far and wide.

Elderberry can grow quickly, allowing it to rapidly colonize open spaces and capture sunlight.

This plant has compounds that can deter pests and are used in traditional remedies.

Measurements & details

Height: 200-600 cm
Spread: 200-600 cm
Flower Size: 0.3-0.5 cm
Bloom Season: Late spring to early summer
Is Edible: Yes
Toxicity: Mild
Lifecycle: Perennial
Pollination Method: Insect

Ecological connections

eaten by

American Robin

Turdus migratorius

Feasts on ripe, dark purple elderberries.

pollinates

European Honey Bee

Apis mellifera

Collects nectar and pollen from the abundant flowers.

eats

White-tailed Deer

Odocoileus virginianus

Browses on the leaves and tender new shoots.

Traits

Deciduous

Discover the magic of plants that shed all their leaves during a particular season, often putting on a spectacular show of fall colors first. They get ready for a fresh start!

Shrub

These amazing plants are like nature's bushy sculptures, having woody stems that branch out from the ground to create a lovely, full shape.

Fragrant Flower

Discover flowers that release delightful scents into the air, enchanting our senses and attracting helpful insects. Take a moment to enjoy their sweet perfume!

Fruit Bearing

These amazing plants develop fruits, which often contain seeds and are sometimes delicious treats for us or wildlife. They're nature's way of spreading new life!

Medicinal

Discover special plants that people have used for centuries to help them feel better or stay healthy, often found in nature's own medicine cabinet.

Edible

Find plants that are safe and delicious to eat, offering tasty treats and nourishment from nature's pantry. Always check with an adult before tasting!