Elderberry Identification

The fruit of the elderberry shrub is edible.

Elderberry, also referred to as Sambucus canadensis, is a shrub that provides fruit that acts as a food source for both birds and humans. You can purchase wine and jelly made from the elderberry fruit. Proper identification of the elderberry plant is essential, to avoid confusing this plant with the poisonous hemlock plant.

Habitat

Elderberry flourishes in wet areas of the United States, such as the swamplands located in Florida. You can also find elderberry growing in man-made ditches and water retention ponds.

Physical Characteristics

The elderberry plant can reach up to 20 inches in height and features lance-shaped leaves that exhibit a dark green color on the top side. Elderberry leaves can reach up to 6 inches in length and approximately 2 inches in width.

Identifying Characteristics

It is easiest to identify the elderberry plant during the early to mid-summer months when the plant produces white flower blooms, according to the University of Florida's School of Forest Resources and Conservation. This plant produces dark purple berries during the summer and fall months.

References

• University of Florida School of Forest Resources and Conservation: Elderberry