Sambucus racemosa (Red Elderberry) is a deciduous suckering shrub or small tree adorned with opposite, pinnately compound, green leaves, 6-9 in. long (15-22 cm). Each individual leaf is composed of 5-7 leaflets, lance-shaped to narrowly oval, and deeply incised along the edges. In late spring to early summer, abundant conical clusters of tiny, fragrant, white flowers appear near the branch tips. Attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies, they give way to upright clusters of red berries that are happily devoured by birds in the fall. Native to Europe, northern temperate Asia, and North America across Canada and the United States, Red Elderberry occurs naturally in moist woodlands, thickets, stream banks, fields, fence rows and roadsides. Colorful from spring through fall, this easy-to-grow shrub looks wonderful in mixed borders or as a high-impact specimen plant. Adaptable in gardens, tolerant of wet soils and partial shade, neither of which will diminish fruit set. Will tolerate full sun in northern climates, but prefers part shade in warmer areas.
Requirement | |
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Hardiness | 3,4,5,6,7 |
Heat Zones | 1,2,3,4,5,6,7 |
Climate Zones | 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 14, 15, 16, 17, 1B, 2A, 2B, 3A, A2, A3, 1A, 3B |
Plant Type | Shrubs, Trees |
Plant Family | Adoxaceae |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Summer, Late Spring, Early Summer, Mid Summer, Late Summer |
Height | 8' - 9', 9' - 10' |
Spread | 8' - 9', 9' - 10' |
Water Needs | Average, High |
Maintenance | Average, High |
Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
Characteristics | Wet Soil Tolerant |
Garden Styles | Traditional Garden |
Planting Place | Beds and Borders, Edging |