Sambucus canadensis American elder (Caprifoliaceae) Deciduous shrub

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Sambucus canadensis
American elder
Deciduous shrub
(1 Page of 5)

The Sambucus canadensis plant species is found in Eastern N. America - Nova Scotia to Florida, west to Manitoba and Texas. It is a member of the Caprifoliaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as American elder.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Sambucus canadensis
Common Name:  American elder
Family:  Caprifoliaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  The leaves and stems of this species are poisonous[9, 76]. The fruit has been known to cause stomach upsets to some people. Any toxin the fruit might contain is liable to be of very low toxicity and is destroyed when the fruit is cooked[65, 76].

Mature Height:  4   Mature Width:  4

Habitat:  Rich moist soils along streams and rivers, woodland margins and waste ground[229].

Cultivation Notes: Tolerates most soils, including chalk[200], but prefers a moist loamy soil[11, 200]. Grows well in heavy clay soils. Tolerates some shade but is best in a sunny position[1]. Tolerates atmospheric pollution and coastal situations[200]. A very hardy plant, when dormant it tolerates temperatures down to about -34°c[200]. The flowers have a muscatel smell[245]. A fast-growing but short-lived plant[229], it often forms thickets by means of root suckers[200]. It is occasionally cultivated for its edible fruit, there are several named varieties[183], though these have mainly been developed for their ornamental value[182]. Yields of up to 7kg of fruit per tree have been recorded[160]. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus[200].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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