Sambucus nigra  ssp. cerulea
Blue Elderberry (Native)

Sambucus nigra  ssp. cerulea
Blue Elderberry (Native)

Sambucus nigra  ssp. cerulea, Blue Elderberry
(old nomenclature: Sambucus cerulea) (Native)

Medium to large, 6 – 20 ft. tall, deciduous, shrub or small tree found throughout the western States from near sea level to 9,000 ft. Grows along streams, canyon bottoms, moist flats and slopes, usually on sandy or clay-loam soils. Fair to good palatability for livestock and wildlife in fall and winter. Berries are relished by birds, domestic and wild mammals and humans. Valuable for wildlife habitat and native landscaping. Minimum precip. is 12 – 15 inches. Plant in fall ¼ inch deep. 217,000 seeds/lb.

USDA: Plant Profile | Plant Guide