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You're in Hardiness Zone 6 based on your postal code 43216.
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American Elder

American Elder

Zones: 4 - 9
$12.99 Regular Price
Member Price: $9.99
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Guaranteed Healthy Delivery

When you order trees from The Arbor Day Foundation, your order is guaranteed to arrive in a good, healthy condition or we’ll replace them at no charge. Your trees will be shipped at a suitable time for planting. Each tree and plant is guaranteed to grow, or we’ll replace it within six months of shipment. See details for more information.

This fast-growing shrub is known for its large clusters of yellowish-white, star-shaped flowers. Grown as a border, it provides an incredible summer floral display. But its lovely flowers aren’t the American elder’s only claim to fame. The dark purple elderberries are used to make jellies, pies, juice, and wine and to draw in a variety of different bird species. To ensure a good crop, plant more than one shrub.

  • Displays star-shaped yellowish-white flowers
  • Produces edible dark purple berries 
  • Can be used as a hedge or pruned into a single-stemmed small tree
The American Elder Grows in zones 4 - 9

Your Tree’s Personality

Shape

Rounded

Growth Speed

Fast

Scientific Name

Sambucus canadensis

Mature Height

5' - 12'

Mature Spread

5' - 12'

Shipping Height

2' - 3'

Sun Preference

Full Sun, Partial Sun/Shade

Soil Preference

Acidic, Clay, Drought, Loamy, Moist, Rich, Sandy, Silty Loam, Well Drained, Wet

Wildlife Value

The edible berries provide food for dozens of bird species and other wildlife.

History/Lore

It was introduced in 1761.

Planting Instructions



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