White elderberry

White elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) – Proposed by AKÈNE

?? A generous and ecological native shrub ??

The white elderberry , also called Canadian elderberry , is a robust native shrub that can reach 1.5 to 3 meters in height . Its deciduous foliage consists of opposite, serrated leaves , and in summer, it is adorned with large umbels of small, fragrant white flowers , particularly attractive to pollinators .

In late summer, these flowers turn into clusters of purplish-black berries , edible when cooked . Rich in vitamins A and C , they are prized for making syrups, jams and wines .

?? A versatile shrub, as useful in cooking as it is in supporting biodiversity .

Characteristics of the variety

?? Flowering : June
?? Height : Up to 300 cm
?? Spacing : 500 cm
?? Exposure : Sun, partial shade
?? Life cycle : Perennial
?? Soil type : Loamy to clayey, moist to medium
?? Deer Resistance : Low
?? Seeds per packet : 25

Sowing and cultivation

Canadian elderberry requires a multi-step germination process to mimic natural conditions and ensure good emergence.

?? Scarification : Soak the seeds in hot water (80°C) and let them sit for 24 hours at room temperature.
??? Warm stratification : Mix the seeds with moist substrate and store them at room temperature for 60 days away from light.
?? Cold stratification : Then transfer the seeds to the refrigerator for 120 days , regularly monitoring humidity and signs of germination.
?? Sowing : Once stratification is complete, sow the seeds 5 mm deep in a light, moist substrate.

When the seedlings develop their first true leaves , transplant them into individual pots. Grow them in containers for their entire first season before transplanting them into the ground in the fall.

Medicinal and ecological uses

?? Ancestral medicinal plant : The flowers are infused into herbal tea to relieve colds and fever , while the cooked berries are used in syrups and natural remedies for their expectorant and antioxidant properties .

?? An asset for biodiversity : The flowers feed pollinators , and the berries are a valuable food source for birds and small mammals in the fall. Elderberry is also appreciated for its role in stabilizing soils , particularly along rivers or in wetlands.

Why grow white elderberry?

?? A native melliferous and ornamental shrub
?? Tasty and vitamin-rich berries, ideal for cooking
?? An ally for biodiversity and soil stabilization
?? Hardy and easy to maintain once well established

Add a native shrub that is as beautiful as it is useful to your garden, while providing a refuge for pollinators and birds!