University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension - Selecting Shrubs for Your Home
http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/shrubselector
American Elderberry
Sambucus canadensis
3 pictures total. Back Next
American Elderberry form in fruit
Size:

Small
Size: medium
Medium

Large
Exposure/ Light Requirements:
Full Shade not required.
Full Shade
Full Sun required.
Full Sun
Partial Sun/Shade required.
Partial Sun/Shade
Pests and Problems:

Environmental Damage

Fungal Disease


Occasional problems with borers,cankers and powdery mildew. Tends to sucker and may need regular pruning to keep the plant in good shape.
Hardiness Zone: 3 - 8 
Mature Height: 6-12 Feet
Mature Width: 6-10 Feet
Features: Large flattened clusters of tiny cream-colored flowers in summer, fragrant; large clusters of small dark purple berries in late summer.
Culture: Full sun to partial shade; moist, well-drained soils are best, but will tolerate some dryness as well as wet sites; tolerates alkaline soil.
Cultivars:
  • 'Adams'- 8-10 feet tall, heavy fruit production (good for jams and wine).
  • 'York'- Larger fruits maturing later than 'Adams', heavy fruit production (good for jams and wine).
Mature Form: Rounded to upright
Native To: United States (and Illinois)
Soil Conditions:
Soil condition: DryDry
Soil condition: Moist, Well-DrainedMoist, Well-Drained
Soil condition: WetWet
Tolerance:
Tolerance: Alkaline SoilAlkaline Soil
Tolerance: Dry SitesDry Sites
Salt
Tolerance: Soil CompactionSoil Compaction
Tolerance: Wet SitesWet Sites
Wind
Uses:
Barrier
Border
Foundation
Hedge
Massing
Naturalizing
Screen
Use for: Specimen.Specimen
Foliage Color: Green
 
Fall Foliage Color: Green
Yellow
 
Additional Notes: