This summer-deciduous small tree has an extensive range, from west Texas to California and into Mexico. Older trees develop gnarly, twisted trunks. The compound leaves have slightly toothed, sandpapery leaflets. Flattened clusters of creamy-white flowers occur in the winter and spring. The edible, tart, blue-black fruit is a favorite of many migratory birds. Plant in full to part sun and provide moderate summer irrigation to speed the growth rate.
Sambucus nigra ssp. cerulea (Elderberry)
Sambucus nigra ssp. cerulea
Blue Elderberry, Blue Elder, Blueberry Elder, Mexican Elder, Arizona Elderberry, New Mexico Elderberry, Velvet-leaf Elderberry, Hairy Blue Elderberry
This summer-deciduous small tree has an extensive range, from west Texas to California and into Mexico. Older trees develop gnarly, twisted trunks. The compound leaves have slightly toothed, sandpapery leaflets. Flattened clusters of creamy-white flowers occur in the winter and spring. The edible, tart, blue-black fruit is a favorite of many migratory birds. Plant in full to part sun and provide moderate summer irrigation to speed the growth rate.
| Plant Type | Native, Shrub, Tree |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Water Needs | Low |
| Hardiness Zone | Zone 7 (0° F) |
| Flower Color | White |
| Flower Season | Spring, Summer, Winter |
| Growth Rate | Moderate, Slow |
| Height | 20 (ft) |
| Spread | 25 (ft) |
| Spacing | 20' (ft) |
| Characteristics | Fruit & Berries, Showy |
| Attracts | Bees, Birds, Butterflies, Pollinators, Wildlife |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Garden Uses | Beds and Borders, Specimen |
| Tolerance | Cold, Deer, Heat |
| Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil PH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Image by: Wiki Commons
Image by: Wiki Commons
This catalog is for reference purposes. Plants may not be available at all times in the nursery. Please check with our store for current availability.
