Red Elderberry

(Sambucus pubens)

Red Elderberry (Sambucus pubens)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Sambucus pubens, commonly known as Red Elderberry, is a deciduous shrub native to a variety of habitats including moist, fertile woodlands, streambanks, and forest edges in the Appalachian and Northeastern United States, as well as Eastern Canada. It typically grows to a height of 6-12 feet (1.8-3.7 meters) and a width of 4-10 feet (1.2-3 meters). The shrub is characterized by its compound leaves and clusters of small, cream to white flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer, which are followed by bright red berries that are attractive to birds and other wildlife. The berries are also used in jellies and wines but should not be consumed raw as they are toxic to humans.

Red Elderberry is valued for its wildlife-friendly attributes and its ability to thrive in a range of soil conditions, from wet to well-drained. It is often used in naturalized plantings, as a component of wildlife gardens, and for erosion control on slopes. Gardeners should provide it with full sun to partial shade and ensure consistent moisture for optimal growth. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and other fungal diseases. Pruning is recommended to maintain a desirable shape and to remove any dead or diseased wood.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 6-12 feet
  • Width: 4-10 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Cream, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Moist, fertile woodlands, streambanks, and forest edges

Other Names

Common Names: American Red Elderberry , Red Elderberry , Red-Berried Elder , Roter Holunder

Scientific Names: Sambucus pubens , Sambucus racemosa subsp. racemosa , Sambucus microbotrys , Sambucus callicarpa , Sambucus racemosa subsp. pubens , Sambucus racemosa var. pubens , Sambucus racemosa var. arborescens , Sambucus racemosa var. microbotrys , Sambucus leiosperma , Sambucus pubens var. arborescens

GBIF Accepted Name: Sambucus racemosa subsp. racemosa