Sambucus nigra ssp. caerulea, Blue Elderberry

Attractive, hardy, and easy to grow, Blue Elderberry is also an important food source for California wildlife. In spring, large clusters of cream-colored flowers attract butterflies and bees. The abundant clusters of blue berries provide food for birds and many other wildlife species. Humans can eat the fruit as long as it’s cooked.

This fast-growing shrub or tree is tolerant of a variety of growing conditions, although it does best in sun and well-drained moist, rich soil. It can grow to the size of a small tree, 15–20 ft tall or eventually larger if irrigated, but is easily shaped with pruning and can be pruned to a single trunk.

Give it full sun or part shade. Will tolerate drought once established but will also thrive next to or in regularly irrigated areas. Deer will browse the leaves when young.