Canada elderberry is a large native shrub that produces flat clusters of fragrant white flowers in early summer followed by dark purple berries in late summer. It grows best in full sun to partial shade with moist, fertile soil.

The flowers attract native bees, butterflies, hoverflies, beetles, and many beneficial insects. The berries are an important food source for more than 50 species of birds, including robins, cedar waxwings, thrushes, woodpeckers, and grouse. Small mammals also feed on the fruit.

Fast growing.
Spreads by suckers to form colonies.
Excellent for wildlife hedges and naturalized areas.
Prune older stems every few years to maintain vigor.
Harvest only fully ripe berries.

CAUTION
⚠️ Raw leaves, stems, roots, bark, and unripe berries contain cyanogenic compounds and should not be eaten.