Blue Elderberry
Sambucus mexicana
Last reviewed: July 2026
Sambucus mexicana (Blue Elderberry) is a native deciduous tree blooming May through July across Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah. This drought-tolerant species attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles with its clusters of small white flowers.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
120"–360" H × 120"–240" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CA, NM, NV and 1 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Mexican elderberry is a large deciduous shrub or small tree with clusters of creamy white flowers in late spring and summer. It produces dark blue berries that can be used for jams or left for birds, and features compound leaves that provide dappled shade.
Growing Blue Elderberry
Grow Blue Elderberry in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 120 to 360 inches tall and spread 120 to 240 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Blue Elderberry is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, foundation.
- Can appear somewhat rangy without regular pruning
- Deciduous nature means winter bareness
- Size may overwhelm smaller front yards
Wildlife value
Host plant for mourning cloak butterfly.
Excellent wildlife plant that attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles to its nectar-rich flowers. Birds are drawn to the berries, making it a valuable multi-season support plant.
Common questions
- When does Blue Elderberry bloom?
- Sambucus mexicana typically blooms from May through July, producing flat-topped clusters of small, creamy white flowers.
- What pollinators visit Blue Elderberry?
- Blue Elderberry attracts a diverse range of pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and beetles that feed on the nectar and pollen of its flowers.
- Where is Blue Elderberry native?
- Sambucus mexicana is native to the southwestern United States, including Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah, typically growing in riparian areas and mountain slopes.
- How much water does Blue Elderberry need?
- Blue Elderberry is quite adaptable to different moisture conditions, tolerating everything from occasional deep watering to regular moisture, making it suitable for both drought-tolerant and riparian plantings.
- Is Blue Elderberry HOA-friendly?
- Blue Elderberry is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Blue Elderberry? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz