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| Sambucus canadensis
Common elderberryCulture: The American elder is easy to transplant, adaptable to either wet or dry sites and prefers neutral to acidic soils. It will tolerate full sun to moderate shade, although the plant opens considerably in shade. Regular renewal pruning is advised to keep this species looking its best. Its strong tendency to sucker and the displacement of stems by the weight of the fruit contribute to a continual need to prune if you want a formal appearance. Borers are the most serious of pests, although leafspots and cankers can occasionally be a problem. Generally, this plant is not seriously affected by these problems. Usage: This native of meadows, stream banks and fence rows is often relegated to naturalizing purposes or used in wet areas where the fruits are highly sought by birds and other wildlife. A variety of cultivated selections are available including a yellow foliaged form with red fruit 'Aurea', a cutleaf form 'Acutiloba', larger flowers 'Maxima', and a number of selections for improved fruit production. |
