shrub

Elder

Sambucus nigra

Updated 4 Aug 2026 · AI-parsed entry

Elder (Sambucus nigra) — a shrub, for Full sun, Medium water.

What it needs & gives back

↓ Needs

Lightfull sun to partial shade
Watermoderate to high

↑ Gives back

Mulch_biomasshigh
Nectarabundant
Pollenabundant

Through the year

Through the year

JFMAMJJASOND
emergenceNew growth emerges after the last spring frost and consistent mild temperatures.
floweringFlowers appear in late spring to early summer, typically 60 days after emergence.
fruitingBerries develop and ripen in mid to late summer, about 30 days after flowering.
senescenceLeaves begin to yellow and drop with the first autumn frosts and shortening days.
dormancyThe plant enters dormancy after leaf senescence, lasting through winter.

Soil interactions

Drainagemoist but well-drained
Nitrogen fixingNo
MycorrhizalYes
Accumulatespotassium, calcium, phosphorus
Soil textureloam, clay, silt
Organic matterHigh
Compaction toleranceMedium

Propagation

Methodscuttings, seeds, division
Difficulty2 / 5
Establishes in~2 yr
Stratificationcold_moist
Self-seedingModerate
Divisionautumn

Wildlife & pests

Attractsbees, butterflies, hoverflies, birds
Can host pestsaphids, elderberry borer
Can host diseasespowdery mildew, canker