Blue elderberry is a large, semi-riparian, multi-stemmed shrub found in our stream corridors, growing 6 to 10 feet tall and 5 to 8 feet wide. Foliage is pinnately compounded, and a medium green, with yellow fall color. It has attractive clusters of white flowers (April thru July), followed by clusters of small blue-black edible fruit. Berries are used to make wine, jellies, jams, and pies. Excellent food for wildlife and birds. A Utah native.
Grow in sun to part shade, in rich, well-drained soil. Clay loam or gravelly-loam soils are ideal. Requires regular irrigation and occasional renovative pruning (see Guide for pruning tips). It is not well suited for dry landscapes, but is still a great selection for a moderate-water landscape or inclusion in an edible garden.