Plant of the Week: Elderberry

Did You Know?

Elderberries (Sambucus) have been dated back to 12,000-9,000 B.C.E. The genus name Sambucus comes from the Greek word sambuke for a musical instrument once made of elderberry wood. Elderberry is in the Adoxaceae family (flowering plants).

Elderberry Tree

There are more than 30 species of elderberry shrubs and trees. Elderberry leaves can grow about 5-30 cm long and can grow about 10-50 feet tall depending on the elderberry species.

Elderberry Flower

Elderberry produces large clusters of small white or cream-colored flowers in late spring. These are followed by clusters of small black, blue-black, or red berries (rarely yellow or white).

How can this benefit you?

Elderberry will help strengthen the function of the immune system, protect against infections and bacteria, and help improve your gastrointestinal and cardiovascular health. Elderberry berries are the only beneficial part of the plant.

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