Plant Database
Mexican Elderberry
Sambucus mexicana
The Mexican Elderberry, also known as Blue Elderberry, is a fast-growing, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub or small tree native to western North America, including California. It is prized for its large, showy clusters of creamy-yellow flowers in spring and its heavy crops of small, powder-blue berries in late summer to fall . The flowers are fragrant, edible, and commonly used for making elderflower syrup, tea, and cordials. The berries, rich in antioxidants, are widely used in jams, pies, wines, and syrups but must be cooked before consumption. This resilient, drought-tolerant plant is a cornerstone of native gardens, providing vital food and habitat for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife throughout the year.