Growing Sambucus

Latin Name Pronunciation: sam-boo'kus   

Elders are a diverse group, primarily comprising hardy deciduous trees and shrubs, along with a few herbaceous members. They come from North America, Asia, and Europe and are known for their large heads of white or cream-colored flowers. These are followed by red, purple-black, or blue fruits, which are enjoyed by birds. The leaves are pinnate and the more ornamental varieties have elegantly cut leaflets or variegated or colored foliage.

In general, Elders are trouble-free plants, happy in full or part sun and ordinary soil, needing only a late-winter pruning to maintain their size and shape.