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Elderberry (Sambucus nigra), Shrub

Varieties We Bring In

StandardSambucus nigra
Sizes & Pricing
3 galFrom$19.95

Last received Mar 9, 2026.

We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.

Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.

LightFull Sun, Part Sun
WaterModerate
Mature size5-12 feet × 6-10 feet

Pet toxicity: Toxic to dogs and cats

Pet safety guide

About Elderberry

American elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) is a fast-growing native shrub from eastern North America bearing large, flat-topped clusters of creamy-white flowers in early summer followed by drooping bunches of small dark purple-black berries. The berries are widely used for syrups, wines, and wildlife food.

Plant details

Bloom Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Flower Color
White
Growth Rate
Fast
Foliage
Deciduous
Soil
Sandy, Loam, Acidic, Alkaline, Well-drained, Wet

Best planting months

Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL

Recommended months: March, April, May, September, October, November.

January, other month
February, other month
March, good window
April, good window
May, good window
June, other month
July, other month
August, other month
September, good window
October, good window
November, good window, this month
December, other month
This monthGood windowOther months

Seasonal care

Bloom season. New foliage emerges. Good planting window.

Care essentials

Light

Plant elderberry in full sun for the heaviest fruit and flower production; it will tolerate partial sun but yields fewer blooms and berries — choose a site with at least 6 hours of direct sun daily.

Water

Elderberry prefers consistently moist to wet soil and performs best near water features or in low areas that collect rain; it tolerates occasional drought once established but will produce more abundantly with regular moisture.

Soil & Fertilizer

Adaptable to a wide range of soils from sandy to clay and tolerates wet conditions; enrich planting soil with compost and apply a balanced fertilizer in spring — prune out old canes annually and remove suckers to maintain a tidy, productive shrub.

Similar needs

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Common questions

Is Elderberry a good plant for St. Augustine?

Elderberry is a shrub. Mature size: 5-12 feet × 6-10 feet. Light: Full Sun, Part Sun. Water needs: Moderate. Elderberry is Florida-Friendly. Recorded hardiness zone: 9a.

What is the recorded pet toxicity for Elderberry?

Toxic to dogs and cats

Care information verified from

Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.