LIFE CYCLE
Perennial
GROWTH HABIT
Upright
PLANT CHARACTERISTICS
hardy
BLOOM SEASON
spring
FLAVOUR PROFILE
Berries mildly bitter
SUITABLE FOR
OUT DOOR
SEED TYPE
Open-pollinated
PLANT TYPE
Fruit-bearing Shrub
PLANTING SEASON
Late Winte
FRUIT SIZE
Small
PLANT HEIGHT
2–4 m
LIGHT REQUIREMENT
Full sun
WATER NEEDS
Moderate
HARDINESS ZONES
USDA 3–7
CONTAINER GARDEN
Yes (large containers)
PLANT SPACING
1.5–2 m
PLANTING DEPTH
0.5–1 cm
GROWING CONDITIONS
COOL CLIMATE
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Red Elderberry produce attractive clusters of bright red berries?
Can Red Elderberry produce attractive clusters of bright red berries?
Yes. This deciduous shrub is known for producing ornamental clusters of bright red berries that add seasonal color to the landscape.
Do the creamy white flower clusters attract bees and other pollinators?
Do the creamy white flower clusters attract bees and other pollinators?
Yes. The fragrant flower clusters attract bees and other beneficial pollinating insects during the blooming season.
Will annual pruning help maintain a healthy, well-shaped shrub?
Will annual pruning help maintain a healthy, well-shaped shrub?
Yes. Light pruning helps improve air circulation, encourages vigorous new growth, and maintains an attractive plant form.
Do the berries provide seasonal interest for wildlife?
Do the berries provide seasonal interest for wildlife?
Yes. The colorful berry clusters provide ornamental value and can attract various bird species to the garden.
How is Red Elderberry different from Black Elderberry?
How is Red Elderberry different from Black Elderberry?
Red Elderberry (Sambucus racemosa) produces bright red berry clusters and typically flowers earlier in the season, while Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) bears dark purple to black berries and is more commonly cultivated for its edible fruit after proper preparation.
Can Red Elderberry be grown as a hedge or wildlife-friendly shrub?
Can Red Elderberry be grown as a hedge or wildlife-friendly shrub?
Yes. Its dense, branching growth makes it well suited for hedges, naturalized plantings, wildlife gardens, and ornamental landscape borders.