Native To State: YES
Naturally Occurring: NO
Description
Sambucus nigra, or elderberry, is a deciduous shrub or small tree belonging to the Adoxaceae family. Here are some key identification characteristics:
Size and Growth: Elderberry typically grows as a multi-stemmed shrub, reaching heights of 6 to 12 feet (1.8 to 3.6 meters). Occasionally, it can grow as a small tree up to 20 feet (6 meters) tall.
Leaves: The leaves are compound, opposite, and pinnately divided into 5 to 9 leaflets. Each leaflet is ovate and sharply serrated along the edges. The leaf color is dark green.
Flowers: Elderberry produces large, flat-topped clusters of creamy white to ivory flowers. These fragrant flowers have five petals and bloom in late spring to early summer.
Fruit: The fruit of Sambucus nigra is a small, dark purple to black berry, commonly known as elderberries. The berries are clustered in drooping bunches and are edible when fully ripe. They are commonly used to make jams, syrups, and other culinary delights.
Bark: Young stems have a smooth and greenish-brown bark, while older branches develop rough and grayish bark with corky ridges.
Habitat: Elderberry is native to Europe and North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, hedgerows, and stream banks. It often thrives in moist and fertile soils.
Distribution: The species has a broad distribution range, occurring across various regions of Europe and North America.
Other Species: There are other species of elderberry, but Sambucus nigra is one of the most commonly recognized and cultivated for its culinary and medicinal uses.
Elderberry has a long history of traditional uses, with both its flowers and berries having culinary and medicinal applications. However, it’s essential to note that not all parts of the elderberry plant are edible, and some parts can be toxic. Therefore, it’s crucial to be certain about its identification and proper use before consuming or using elderberry for any purpose. If in doubt, consult an expert or reliable field guide for confirmation.
Occurrence
One established specimen along the main trail south of the marsh planted in 2013.