blue elder

plant

Also known as: Mexican elder, Sambucus caerulea

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Last updated

June 22, 2026

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The blue elder, also known as Sambucus caerulea, is a shrub or small tree native to the western United States. It is a species within the Sambucus genus, which includes about 10 species of shrubs and small trees found in temperate and subtropical regions worldwide.12

Blue elder plants have white flowers that develop into blue berries, often covered with a whitish bloom. These berries, along with those from other elderberry species, are a food source for wildlife and are used in making wines, jellies, pies, and traditional medicines. The genus Sambucus is known for its deciduous nature, pinnately compound leaves, and clusters of small flowers followed by berries that can be red, blue-black, black, or yellow.12

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elderberry
Major species and uses
…species of elderberry include the blue, or Mexican, elder (S. caerulea), which grows to 15 metres (48 feet) and has deep blue or purple fruits; it is found in western North America. European red elder (S. racemosa), native from northern Europe to North China, has round clusters of scarlet berries…
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…species of elderberry include the blue, or Mexican, elder (S. caerulea), which grows to 15 metres (48 feet) and has deep blue or purple fruits; it is found in western North America. European red elder (S. racemosa), native from northern Europe to North China, has round clusters of scarlet berries…
Read More