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.

Canada Elderberry is fast growing and will spread by suckers to form colonies. You can prune older stems every few years to maintain vigor. Please only harvest only fully ripe berries.