Florida Nativ Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)

Overview: Elderberry, scientifically known as Sambucus nigra, is a fast-growing, multi-purpose shrub that is highly valued for its ornamental beauty, wildlife benefits, and edible fruit. Ideal for creating vibrant hedges and naturalized landscapes, Elderberry adds both visual appeal and ecological value to any garden.

Key Features:

• Ornamental Appeal: Elderberry features large, serrated leaves and produces clusters of fragrant, creamy white flowers in late spring to early summer, adding a striking visual element to your garden.
• Edible Berries: Following the flowering period, the shrub yields clusters of dark purple to black berries. These berries are rich in vitamins and antioxidants and can be used to make jams, syrups, wines, and medicinal remedies.
• Wildlife Friendly: The flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, while the berries provide a valuable food source for birds and other wildlife.
• Fast Growing: Elderberry is a vigorous grower, quickly establishing itself in the landscape and forming dense hedges or screens.
• Versatile Use: Suitable for hedges, naturalized areas, and as a specimen plant in both urban and rural gardens.

Planting and Care:

• Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade.
• Soil: Thrives in moist, well-drained soils but is adaptable to a variety of soil types.
• Watering: Requires regular watering, especially during dry periods, to ensure optimal growth and fruit production.
• Pruning: Prune annually to remove dead or weak wood and to encourage vigorous new growth and a tidy shape.

Uses:

• Hedges and Screens: Perfect for creating attractive, dense hedges and privacy screens.
• Edible Landscaping: Ideal for incorporating into edible landscapes, providing both ornamental beauty and harvestable fruit.
• Wildlife Gardens: Supports local ecosystems by attracting pollinators and providing food for birds.
• Medicinal and Culinary: Berries can be used to make various culinary and medicinal products, adding functional value to your garden.

Why Choose Elderberry? Elderberry is an exceptional choice for gardeners seeking a multi-functional shrub that offers both aesthetic and practical benefits. Its rapid growth, ecological value, and delicious fruit make it a must-have for any garden.

Add the versatile and beautiful Elderberry to your garden today. Visit Flowing Well Tree Farm to pick up your plants and receive expert guidance on planting and care!