American black elderberry

American Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra subsp. canadensis) is a species of elderberry native to a large area of North America, including most of the United States and Canada. It is a deciduous shrub growing to 3 m or more, and is commonly found in sunny locations, such as fields, forest edges, and roadsides.

Description

The American Black Elderberry is a large, multi-stemmed shrub that can grow up to 12 feet tall and wide. The leaves are compound, with 5-7 leaflets, each 2-6 inches long. The flowers are small, white, and borne in large clusters. The fruit is a small, dark purple to black berry, which is often used in jams, jellies, wines, and medicinal products.

Cultivation and uses

American Black Elderberry is often cultivated for its edible fruit, which is used in a variety of culinary applications. The berries are high in vitamin C and other nutrients, and have a sweet-tart flavor that is enjoyed fresh and in cooked dishes. They are also used to make elderberry wine, and are a popular ingredient in herbal teas and supplements for their immune-boosting properties.

In addition to its culinary uses, American Black Elderberry is also valued for its ornamental qualities. It is a fast-growing plant that can quickly fill in a bare spot in the landscape, and its large clusters of white flowers and dark purple berries are visually appealing.

Medicinal uses

The berries and flowers of the American Black Elderberry have been used for centuries in traditional medicine. They are believed to have immune-boosting properties, and are often used in the treatment of colds and flu. Some studies have suggested that elderberry extract can help to shorten the duration of flu symptoms, although more research is needed to confirm these findings.

Conservation status

The American Black Elderberry is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. However, like all wild plants, it is vulnerable to habitat loss and other environmental threats.

See also

• Elderberry
• Sambucus
• Medicinal plants

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