Red Elderberry
Sambucus pubens
Last reviewed: August 2026
Sambucus pubens (Canadian Elder) is a native deciduous shrub found in Iowa and northern regions, producing white flower clusters in May and June. This adaptable plant thrives in partial sun with medium moisture and attracts bees, beetles, and flies.
Toxicity unknown
Red Elderberry (Sambucus pubens) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
36"–72" H × 36"–72" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AZ, CA, CT and 34 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 437 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaBrowse plants for this ecoregion
Canadian elder is a medium-sized native shrub that produces clusters of white flowers in late spring followed by bright red berries in summer. This deciduous shrub has a rounded, informal growth habit and provides excellent seasonal interest through flowers, fruit, and fall color.
Growing Red Elderberry
Grow Red Elderberry in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 36 to 72 inches tall and spread 36 to 72 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Red Elderberry is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone.
- Informal growth habit may appear unstructured
- Can look sparse in winter without leaves
Wildlife value
The flowers attract various pollinators including bees, beetles, and flies in May and June. The bright red berries are an important food source for birds and other wildlife throughout summer.
Common questions
- When does Canadian Elder bloom?
- Sambucus pubens typically blooms in May and June, producing clusters of small white flowers.
- What pollinators visit Canadian Elder?
- Canadian Elder attracts various pollinators including bees, beetles, and flies to its flower clusters.
- What growing conditions does Canadian Elder prefer?
- This native shrub grows well in partial sun to partial shade with medium to high moisture levels, making it adaptable to various garden conditions.
- Is Red Elderberry HOA-friendly?
- Red Elderberry is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
These answers were drafted with an AI model from this plant's data. Verify care details with a local expert.
Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Red 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