Sambucus canadensis

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Sambucus canadensis

Sambucus canadensis (pronunciation: sam-BEW-kus ka-na-DEN-sis), commonly known as the American elder, is a species of elderberry native to a large area of North America east of the Rocky Mountains, and south through eastern Mexico and Central America to Panama. It grows in a variety of conditions including both wet and dry soils, primarily in sunny locations.

Etymology

The genus name Sambucus is derived from the Greek word "sambuke", a musical instrument supposedly made from elder wood. The species name canadensis refers to its widespread growth in Canada.

Description

Sambucus canadensis is a deciduous shrub growing to 3 m (10 ft) tall. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs, each leaf 5–30 cm (2.0–11.8 in) long, pinnate with 5–9 leaflets, each leaflet 5–12 cm (2.0–4.7 in) long, with a serrated margin. The flowers are in large corymbs 10–25 cm (3.9–9.8 in) diameter with numerous white to pinkish flowers. The fruit is a small dark purple to black berry 3–5 mm (0.12–0.20 in) diameter, produced in drooping clusters in the fall.

Uses

The berries and flowers of Sambucus canadensis are used in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments. The berries are also used to make jams, jellies, and wine.

Related Terms

External links

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