Canadian Elder
Sambucus canadensis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Sambucus canadensis is a native deciduous shrub found across most US states that produces clusters of white flowers in June and July, attracting bees, butterflies, and beetles.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
72"–120" H × 72"–120" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 38 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Canadian elder is a large native shrub that produces showy clusters of creamy white flowers in early summer, followed by dark purple berries. This fast-growing plant forms a substantial presence in the landscape and can spread through root suckers to create colonies.
Growing Canadian Elder
Grow Canadian Elder in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 72 to 120 inches tall and spread 72 to 120 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Canadian Elder takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very large mature size may overwhelm typical residential spaces
- Spreads aggressively through suckers
- Can appear scraggly without regular pruning
Wildlife value
Host plant for sphinx moths.
The fragrant flower clusters attract bees, butterflies, and beetles during bloom time. Birds eagerly consume the nutritious berries in late summer and fall.
Common questions
- When does Canadian Elder bloom?
- Sambucus canadensis typically blooms in June and July, producing flat-topped clusters of small white flowers.
- What pollinators visit Canadian Elder?
- Canadian Elder attracts a variety of pollinators including bees, butterflies, and beetles to its summer flower clusters.
- Where is Sambucus canadensis native?
- Canadian Elder is native to most US states from coast to coast, ranging from Maine to Florida in the east and from Montana to California in the west.
- What growing conditions does Canadian Elder prefer?
- This adaptable shrub tolerates a wide range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade and grows well in various moisture levels from wet to moderately dry soils.
- Is Canadian Elder toxic to cats?
- Yes. Canadian Elder is listed as toxic to cats by the Cornell University Poisonous Plants Database (aspca.org). If your cat has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Canadian Elder HOA-friendly?
- Canadian Elder takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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 Canadian Elder? 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