This zone 4, refer to blog on plant hardiness zones, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub grows five to twelve feet in height and width. It is an easy shrub to control in size through bi-annual pruning, which should not begin until the third or fourth year, of the dead or broken canes. Elderberry bush is a very adaptable plant to all soils, even areas that tend to have some standing water during the year and will thrive in sunny locations as well as areas of partial shade. Elderberry bush is relatively pest and disease free making it a low maintenance plant. It is best to plant this bush in early spring and is adaptable for you to buy either as bare-root or containerized. Fertilizing of Elderberry bush should take place in early spring, with an overall formula of 10-10-10, when the rains can wash it into the surrounding area. Always place fertilizer around the base of the plant at the drip line, remembering that fertilizer can “burn” a plant if concentrated in any one area of the plant base.

Elderberry bush serves many purposes besides that of beauty. USDA says, “Elderberries are quite edible. The blue or purple berries are gathered and made into elderberry wine, jam, syrup, and pies. The entire flower cluster can be dipped in batter and fried while petals can be eaten raw or made into a fragrant and tasty tea. The flowers add an aromatic flavor and lightness to pancakes or fritters.” This fruit bearing shrub, usually around three to four years of age, produces more fruit when planted in pairs or more. Harvesting of the fruit cluster is tricky only in trying to get to them before the birds do.

Elderberry bush is a favorite food source of songbirds and when placed in a natural landscape, that includes trees or shrubs that provide nesting sites, will most likely reward you with a symphony of beautiful song.