Red Elderberry

(Sambucus racemosa)

Other Names:
Red berried elder, red elder, scarlet elder

Range:


Family:
Adoxaceae – Moschatel family

Growth Type:
Deciduous shrub or small tree

Height:
Can grow up to 20' tall. Overall the plant has a wide arching form.

Leaves:
The opposite, pinnate, leaves and typically contain 5–7 pointed leaflets. Each leaf is oval, lance shaped, and approximately 2 - 4 in long, and the leaflets have toothed margins. The leaves have a disinctive strong odor that is not present in Sambucus nigra.

Stem/Trunk:
Multiple stemmed with older specimens forming multiple coarse barked trunks. The light weight pithy twigs rance from brown to dark red to almost purple. The twig surfaces have raised pores giving them a bumpy appearance.

Root:
Rhizomes with dense root mass

Flower Season:
Early to mid spring

Flower Appearance:
Large conical or pyramidal shaped clusters of small white or cream-colored flowers

Seed/Fruit:
Large clusters of small, bright red berries, approximately 1/8" in diameter. Each fruit contains from 2 to 5 seeds. The fruit is toxic until cooked.

Miscellaneous characteristics:
The roots, stems, and foliage of S. racemosa are toxic. When properly cooked, the fruit is safe to eat.

Habitat:
Sunny locations in fertile soils of fields, and alongside streams, rivers, ponds, and lakes

Parts Used:
Flowers, Ripe Berries

Uses:
Culinary Uses:
The cooked fruit can be made into tasty jams and preserves.

The following text is meant for informational purposes only. It is not meant to diagnose or treat any illness or injury. Always consult with a physician or other qualified medical care provider concerning the diagnosis and treatment of any illness or injury.

Medicinal Uses:
While techincally medicinal, due to the toxicity of S. racemosa, I would not recommend attempting to use it medicinally.