Mexican Elder

Description
Botanical Name: 
Sambucus mexicana

A native from California.  A rampant, fast growing, wild looking shrub or multi-stemmed tree.  Transplants well, does best in moist soils but will tolerate dry as well.  Foliage leafs out in late winter and is a bright green.  Leaflets 3 to 5, mostly elliptic, ovate, or obovate, 1 3/4" to 2 1/2" long, 1 1/2" broad.  Most start their dormant phase in late summer. Creamy white flowers appear in spring.  Produces purple-black berries which are quite popular with birds and can be used in pies and wine.

Plant Characteristics
Plant Category: 
Trees-Shade & Ornamental
Name: 
Mexican Elder
Plant Type: 
Deciduous
Flower: 
White or creamy white flowers in flat-topped 2" to 8" clusters.
Mature Size: 
30' tall x 20' wide
Water: 
Low to moderate, once established.
Exposure:: 
Full sun
Spacing: 
10'
Soil Type: 
Clay; loam; sand; acidic; alkaline; well drained
Planting Time: 
Any season
Comments
Comments: 

Young trees often require training and pruning to speed formation of uniform crown.  Best as a multi-trunk tree, as older growth can be broken by windy conditions.