Sambucus cerulea

Sambucus caerulea 8012

Sambucus cerulea, commonly known as the blue elderberry, is a species of flowering plant in the family Adoxaceae. It is native to western North America, where it is found in a variety of habitats, from moist forested areas to dry slopes. This plant is a deciduous shrub or small tree, reaching heights of up to 10 meters. It is characterized by its clusters of small, white or cream-colored flowers, which bloom in the spring and summer. These flowers are followed by blue or blackish berries that are a key food source for local wildlife and can be used by humans in a variety of culinary applications.

Description

Sambucus cerulea features compound leaves that are arranged oppositely along the stem. Each leaf is divided into 5 to 9 leaflets, each of which is lance-shaped and sharply toothed. The plant's flowers are borne in large, flat-topped clusters known as cymes. These flowers give way to the plant's distinctive berries, which are small, spherical, and typically blue or black in color, with a whitish bloom. The berries contain seeds that are dispersed by birds and mammals that eat the fruit.

Habitat and Distribution

Sambucus cerulea is widely distributed across the western United States and Canada, from California north to British Columbia and east to the Rocky Mountains. It thrives in a variety of environmental conditions, from wetlands and riverbanks to dry forests and mountainous areas. The plant's adaptability to different habitats has made it a common sight in its native range.

Culinary and Medicinal Uses

The berries of Sambucus cerulea have been used by indigenous peoples and settlers alike for their nutritional and medicinal properties. They are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making them a valuable food source. However, it is important to note that the berries must be properly cooked or processed to remove cyanogenic glycosides, which can be harmful if ingested in large quantities. The flowers are also edible and are often used to make teas, infusions, and elderflower cordials.

In traditional medicine, various parts of the Sambucus cerulea plant have been used to treat a range of ailments, from fever and colds to joint pain and inflammation. While some of these uses are supported by scientific research, particularly the use of elderberry extract in treating colds and flu, others remain anecdotal.

Cultivation

Sambucus cerulea is cultivated both for its ornamental value and for its fruit. The plant prefers well-drained soil but is relatively drought-tolerant once established. It can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or by division. Pruning is recommended to maintain the desired shape and size, as well as to encourage fruit production.

Conservation

While Sambucus cerulea is not currently listed as endangered or threatened, its habitat is subject to the pressures of development, agriculture, and climate change. Conservation efforts focus on preserving natural habitats and promoting the use of native plants in landscaping to support biodiversity.