Distribution:
Elderberry has a wide distribution growing in almost half of continental North America from
Nova Scotia west to Manitoba and south to Florida and Texas .
Description:
Its flat topped whites flowers appear in June and July and later give way to purple/black fruit in
August. Although it prefers moist soil once established it will grow in drier spots.
Older canes tend to dieback giving way to younger more vigorous sprouts. It grows up to 12'
in height. Winter hardy to zone 3.
Ecology:
Elderberry is a typical understory plant in the Eastern forest and also found in wetland areas in
full sun. Its berries are heavily utilized by bird species and it is not uncommon to see birds such as robins eating the fermenting
berries,getting drunk, and falling off the plants. Deer will browse young foliage of elderberry.
Medicinal Uses:
In traditional western medicine both European elder (Sambucus nigra )and American Elder
(Sambucus canadensis) have been used to treat colds and respiratory disorders. The whole plant is used to make medicines.
In modern medicine it is used as a diuretic and the berries have significant antioxidant effects. The flowers possess anti
viral qualities.
History and Folklore:
Elder was a common ingredient in jellies jams, preserves, wines and pies in colonial North America.
In Europe sitting beneath the Elder was supposed to attract elves and faeries. The plant was also supposed to repel witches
and other evil spirits.
Native Americans used the bark as an emetic and laxative. The Iroquois peoples used the bark as a
poultice for headaches. The leaves were used as an anti-inflammatory medicine. It was also used as a food-made into
dried cakes or eaten fresh.
