Difference Between American Elder & Elderberry Tree

Elderberries work best in naturalized or woodsy areas where they can sucker.


The American elderberry (Sambucus Canadensis) is an elderberry (Sambucus), but is only one of many. Although there are several differences between the American elderberry and others, most elderberries are fairly similar, and can be treated similarly both in the garden and in the kitchen, where they are often used to make preserves.

American Elderberry

The American elderberry is a deciduous shrub. Like other elderberries, it can grow tall and treelike, but is not technically a tree. Native to eastern North America, as the name suggests, it is winter hardy to U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 through 9. White flowers form in June or July and are followed by clusters of bluish-black fruits in late summer or fall. These fruits are berrylike in appearance, but are actually drupes.

Other Elderberries

Other types of elderberries, which used to have their own distinctions, are now classified as types of European elderberry (Sambucus nigra). This elderberry is native to parts of Europe, Africa and southwestern Asia, and is winter hardy in USDA zones 5 through 8. The blueberry elder, or blue elderberry (Sambucus nigra subsp. Cerulea, formerly Sambucus glauca), hardy to USDA zones 4 through 9, is native to parts of North America but most closely related to the European elderberry. These berries also exhibit the blue-black color elderberries are known for. There are seven species native to the United States.


Elderberries grow in full sun or partial shade. It prefers moist, humusy soils, and will even grow in conditions that are verging on wet. It will also tolerate clay soil, but in either case, soil should be well-drained to avoid drowning the plants. For a naturalized effect, allow plants to sucker freely. In springtime, clear out dead branches to help maintain the health of the colony.


Both American and European elderberries can be used in food preparation, though many people regard the American elderberry as having the better flavor. They may be used to make pies, jams and jellies, and wine. Some people, however, have exhibited reactions to elderberries (especially raw), including nausea, vomiting and cramps. In the garden, elderberries are best grown where they can naturalize by suckering and provide wild interest.

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