Sambucus nigra ssp. caerulea (syn. Sambucus mexicana) - Blue Elderberry

Deciduous shrub or small tree, fast growing to 25 ft. Clusters of creamy yellow flowers in spring and summer, followed by blue berries in fall. Unripe berries are toxic, ripe berries are edible. Great wildlife plant, important food source for birds. Traditionally used to make medicine, food, musical instruments, and dye. Full to part sun. Drought tolerant once established, also tolerates regular water and clay soils. Hardy to -5º F.

 Photo Credit: Theodore Payne Foundation