Elderberry, John's (Sambucus canadensis)

Sambucus canadensis, commonly called American elderberry, is native to eastern North America. It is a deciduous, suckering shrub that typically grows to 5-12’ tall, occurring on streambanks, moist woodlands, thickets, fence rows and roadsides throughout the State of Ohio. Tiny lemonscented white flowers appear in large clustering umbels in June. Flowers give way to clusters of small black elderberries in late summer. The fruit is used to make jams, jellies, pie filings, syrups and elderberry wine. American elder (Sambucus canadensis) and European elder (Sambucus nigra) are closely related plants. Elderberry is a fast grower and aggressive competitor with weeds and herbaceous species. Recommended to plant in mass in naturalized areas where suckering spread may be appreciated.