Red elderberry (Sambucus racemosa)

Also known as: Red-berried elder, Dwarfelder

Lantana (Lantana camara) is an excellent option for natural landscape design. Its colorful blooms attract butterflies and hummingbirds, while its berries appeal to various bird species. However, it's important to handle it with care, as the plant is toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Red elderberry

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

2 m to 6 m

Spread

3 m

Leaf Color

Green Yellow

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Yellow Green White Cream

Images of Red elderberry

Quickly Identify Red elderberry

Red elderberry can be identified by its pinnately compound leaves, clusters of small white flowers in early summer, and red berry-like fruits that appear in late summer.

Scientific Classification of Red elderberry

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Dipsacales

Family

Moschatel

Genus

Sambucus

Species

Red elderberry

Planting and Growing of Red elderberry

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Red elderberry?

For Sambucus racemosa, each watering session should involve approximately 500 milliliters of water. This ensures that the moisture reaches the deeper roots without waterlogging the soil. The principle is to keep the soil consistently moist but not saturated, simulating its natural habitat.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Red elderberry? ›

What should I do if my Red elderberry is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Red elderberry? ›

How to save an overwatered Red elderberry? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Red elderberry?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

The ideal light for Sambucus racemosa spans partial sun conditions. This balance optimizes photosynthesis, leading to robust health and flowering, while minimizing stress from harsh sunlight.

How much light is needed? ›

How can I achieve this lighting? ›

What are the benefits of ideal lighting? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Red elderberry?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Sambucus racemosa thrives best within a temperature range of 60 to 75°F. This range provides optimal conditions for growth, photosynthesis, and overall plant health. Keeping the environment within this range ensures that the plant can efficiently absorb nutrients and maintain its vigor.

What Soil is Best for Red elderberry?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Acidic soil

Soil PH: 6 ~ 7.5

Sambucus racemosa thrives in a soil that can retain some moisture without becoming waterlogged. This moisture retention supports the plant's need for hydration, especially during dry periods, promoting healthy growth. Rich in organic matter, the soil should supply adequate nutrients essential for the plant's development. Nutrient availability ensures vibrant foliage and prolific flowering of the plant. While it enjoys moisture, the soil must also drain well to prevent root rot. Good drainage prevents waterlogging and the associated risk of diseases, keeping the plant roots healthy. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Red elderberry?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Sambucus racemosa, it is essential to provide nutrients in moderation. For liquid fertilizers, use a balanced, water-soluble mix. Dilute it to half-strength and apply approximately 1 liter per square meter of soil area. For slow-release fertilizers, use about 50 grams per plant, distributed evenly across the soil surface. Adjustments should be made based on plant size and growth conditions. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Red elderberry?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by removing any dead or diseased wood to improve the plant's health and appearance. Look for branches that cross or rub against each other and prune them to prevent damage. Trim back any overly long stems to promote bushier growth. Additionally, maintaining an open center helps in increasing light penetration and air circulation. For older Sambucus racemosa plants or those that have not been pruned for a long time, rejuvenation pruning is necessary. This involves cutting back the shrub quite significantly, often to within a foot or two of the ground. This drastic measure rejuvenates the plant, promoting vigorous new growth in the following seasons. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Red elderberry plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Spring, Early summer

Harvest seeds from mature Sambucus racemosa berries. Clean them thoroughly to remove pulp and store them in a cool, dry place until ready to plant.

Select healthy stems from the parent plant. Cut a six-inch section and remove the leaves from the lower half. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting.

In early spring, carefully dig up the parent plant and separate it into smaller sections, ensuring each section has its roots attached. Replant the divisions promptly.

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How to Repot Red elderberry plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Sambucus racemosa needs repotting when you observe root crowding visible through drainage holes or the water drains too quickly. If the plant appears stunted despite proper care, it might also benefit from fresh soil and more space.

Select a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. It should have adequate drainage holes to prevent root rot while accommodating the growth. Choosing a breathable material like clay can help regulate moisture levels and benefit the root system.

Opt for a well-draining, loamy soil mix that's rich in organic matter. This ensures good aeration and retains the right amount of moisture, preventing waterlogging while providing nutrients for healthy growth and vibrant foliage.

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Toxicity of Red elderberry

Is Red elderberry toxic to humans?

In conjunction with other elderberry species, red elderberry is known to be a toxic plant that can trigger mild to moderate adverse reactions in individuals who consume it. Every part of the plant contains toxic glycosides, with the seeds and berries posing the greatest risk. Ingesting any part of this plant may lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea. In severe instances, some individuals could even lapse into a coma. Foragers sometimes mistakenly consume the fruits raw, confusing them with a more palatable variety, or they may neglect to remove the seeds and improperly prepare the berries before consumption.

Is Red elderberry toxic to cat?

Red elderberry is a hazardous plant species that presents a poisoning threat to cats when ingested. Cats may suffer from toxicity if they accidentally consume certain parts of the plant, especially the seeds. Following ingestion, a cat may exhibit a range of vague symptoms indicative of physical distress or illness. Although the exact toxic substances responsible for the poisoning are not identified, it is vital for cat owners to remain aware of the potential hazards associated with red elderberry. If a cat shows any signs of illness following exposure to red elderberry, urgent veterinary assistance should be sought to guarantee appropriate treatment and recovery.

Is Red elderberry toxic to dog?

Red elderberry is recognized as a toxic species for dogs. Canines may inadvertently consume various parts of this plant, especially the seeds, which are highly poisonous. Should a dog ingest any portion of red elderberry, they might display symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and general weakness. It is essential for dog owners to keep a vigilant eye on their pets and ensure they do not have access to red elderberry to prevent any accidental consumption. If a dog is suspected of ingesting this plant, it is vital to seek prompt veterinary assistance to safeguard the health and well-being of the animal.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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