common elderberry

Plant Type

Shrub (less than 10 ft)

Life Cycle

Perennial

Typical Size

5-12 ft. tall
6-12 ft. wide

Tolerant of

Occasional Flooding

Inolerant of

Dry Soil

Propagation

By cutting, By division

Plant Propagation Notes

Easily rooted from softwood cuttings. Seeds must be scarified and then cold moist stratified for 60 days.

Plant Planting Notes

Provide up to 12 ft spacing.

Plants/Diseases

Susceptible to canker, powdery mildew, leaf spot, spidermites, borers, and aphids.

USDA Hardiness Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Light Exposure

Full Sun, Part Sun/Shade

Soil Moisture

Moist

Soil Drainage

Well-drained, Poorly Drained

Soil pH

Acidic (less than 6.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0)

Native in South Carolina?

Yes

Plant Native Habitat

Streambanks, riparian forests, pond margins, and other wet habitats.

Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)

Secure (G5)

Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)

Not Listed

Distribution Notes

Common throughout South Carolina.