Product Overview
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Introduction:
The American Black Elderberry Bush (Sambucus canadensis) is a fast-growing, deciduous shrub known for its clusters of small, black berries that can be used in jams, jellies, wines, and syrups. This hardy shrub is also admired for its delicate white flowers, which bloom in large, flat-topped clusters in the spring and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. The American Elderberry Bush is easy to grow and thrives in a wide range of climates, making it an excellent choice for home gardeners and those interested in edible landscaping.
Plant Summary:
- Size: Grows to a height of 6-12 feet with a spread of 6-12 feet.
- Foliage: Dark green, pinnately compound leaves.
- Flowers/Fruit: Large, flat-topped clusters of white flowers in spring, followed by small, dark purple-black berries in late summer.
- Growth Habit: Upright, bushy growth habit with multiple stems.
- Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Soil: Thrives in moist, well-drained soils but adapts to a variety of soil types.
- Hardiness: Hardy in USDA Zones 3-9.
- pH Level: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 5.5 to 6.5).
- Pruning: Prune in late winter to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the shrub.
- Pests/Diseases: Generally pest-resistant but may occasionally be affected by aphids or powdery mildew.
Pollination:
The American Black Elderberry Bush is self-pollinating, though planting more than one bush can increase berry yield. Its large, white flower clusters bloom in spring and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. These flowers give way to small, black berries in late summer, which can be harvested for a variety of culinary uses. The berries are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to your garden.
Key Benefits:
- Produces edible berries perfect for fresh eating, jams, jellies, wines, and syrups.
- Attractive white flowers in spring add ornamental value to your garden.
- Hardy and adaptable, thriving in a wide range of soil types and climates.
- Provides food for birds and wildlife with its abundant berries.
- Low-maintenance shrub that is both ornamental and productive.
Care Instructions:
- Light: Prefers full sun for optimal berry production but tolerates partial shade.
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods.
- Soil Type: Grows best in moist, well-drained soils but adapts to sandy or loamy soils.
- Pollination: Self-pollinating, with white flowers that attract pollinators in spring.
- Growth Rate: Fast-growing, reaching maturity in 3-5 years.
- Max Height/Width: Reaches 6-12 feet in height and spread.
- Pruning: Prune in late winter to shape the bush and remove deadwood.
Why You'll Love It:
The American Black Elderberry Bush is a versatile and valuable addition to any garden, offering both ornamental beauty and a bountiful harvest of berries. Its delicate white flowers and dark berries provide year-round interest, while its fast growth and easy-care nature make it perfect for gardeners of all experience levels. Whether you’re interested in edible landscaping or simply want to attract pollinators and wildlife to your yard, the American Elderberry is an excellent choice.
Planting Tips:
Plant your American Black Elderberry Bush in early spring or fall in a sunny location with well-drained soil. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root system and plant at the same depth it was growing in the nursery. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch around the base to retain moisture. Regular watering during dry spells will help the bush establish a strong root system and promote healthy growth.
Flower Color:
White
Plant Class:
Deciduous Shrub
Plant Name:
American Black Elderberry Bush
Shipping Details:
Your American Black Elderberry Bush will be shipped as a bare root plant, carefully packaged to ensure it arrives in optimal condition. Bare root plants are shipped during dormancy to promote successful transplanting and establishment in your landscape.