Sambucus racemosa aka Red Elderberry

Sambucus racemosa is a deciduous shrub known as red elderberry. Its native range spans much of North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. It grows in temperate regions and favours moist sites near woodland edges. The plant grows fast and forms several stems. Garden shrubs often reach 8–12 feet [2.4–3.7 metres] tall. They can spread to 15 feet [4.6 metres] across. Oregon State gives a broader height range of 6–20 feet [1.8–6.1 metres]. Larger plants may take the form of small trees.

The shrub has a loose form and spreads through root suckers. These shoots can build colonies where space allows. Its brown stems are slender, with soft pith inside the twigs. The green leaves grow in pairs along the stems. Each pinnate leaf has five to seven leaflets with sharp teeth. Whole leaves measure about 6–9 inches long. The leaflets may have some hair on their lower sides. Fall leaf colour adds little to the plant's garden value.

Small white to yellow-white flowers open in May and June. They form rounded or pyramid-shaped clusters above the leaves. The blooms have a scent and attract butterflies. Bright red fruits follow in upright clusters from summer into fall. UConn records fruit ripening in July. Birds and other wildlife visit the shrub for its fruit. Oregon State warns against eating the berries raw. It describes cooked fruit as suitable for jam, pies, and wine. This evidence does not establish that other plant parts are safe to eat.

Grow red elderberry in sun or partial shade. It prefers deep, moist soil with good drainage and ample nutrients. Rich loam suits it, though it tolerates other soil types. UConn also reports that it accepts a range of soil pH levels. Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA zones 3–7. The shrub suits hedges, screens, shrub borders, and groups in naturalized areas. It can also grow beside ponds or streams and in low spots.

Remove unwanted suckers to limit its spread. Late-winter pruning can remove weak stems or renew older growth. Canker, powdery mildew, and leaf spot can affect the plant. Borers, spider mites, and aphids may also cause problems. Strong winds, heavy snow, and ice can damage branches. Missouri Botanical Garden reports resistance to deer browsing. UConn lists seed, division, and semi-hardwood cuttings as ways to raise new plants.