Elderberry plant, sambucus canadensis, is making a strong comeback. Due to it’s medical properties and great taste in jams/syrups the plant is in high demand. The Elderberry bush is a fast growing bush/tree with a height of 10 to 20 feet. It grows in partial shade to full sun. It makes a great border plant including as an under-story plant along woodland edges.
Elderberry Plant Growing
Elderberry plants grow in USDA zones 4 through 8. Its considered a shrub but will grow into a semi-tree. The plant fruits in the fall. Expect blooms in late spring in most areas with showy white clusters of flowers.
Epic Grower recommends pruning the plant to control height to keep it lower for easy berry picking.
If growing in a container then the plant needs fast draining, moist soil for best results. When in a container and while young in the ground give it a good time released fertilizer. See Epic Grower website for a great 8-9 month time released fertilizer.
The elderberry bush prefers partial shade or afternoon shade. However, it will grow in full sun too. Plant it in areas that provide moist soil that drains well. It does not like standing water what-so-ever.
The plants from Epic Grower, LLC will fruit in 1-2 years. Large ones in the 3 gallon pots may fruit the first year planted. If you obtained your plant during winter then wait until spring (last frost) before planting.
Its always better to plant two (2) or more plants within 60 feet of each other. Elderberry will self pollinate, however, it produces much, much better when pollinated by another elderberry.
Elderberry Plant Uses
Do not eat the berry raw. Too much raw eating of the berry will cause medical problems. Berry and/or leaves uses include making tinctures, cooking, teas and drying into powders.
Cook the berries in great tasting jams, syrups and herbal remedies. Always, consult an herbalist before using elderberry bush for medical purposes.
The leaves are used in teas too. Some of the benefits reported by various studies include treating the common cold, swine flu, boost immune system, treat chronic fatigue, sinus and leg pains.
If you have questions concerning how to grow the elderberry plant please post it using the comment second of this article.