Introduction
Elderberry trees are a great addition to any garden. Not only are they attractive, but they are also beneficial for their health benefits. Elderberries are known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and they are also a good source of Vitamin C. However, there are many different types of elderberry trees to choose from, so it can be difficult to decide which one to plant. In this article, we will discuss the different types of elderberry trees and their characteristics, so you can choose the best one for your garden.
Common Elderberry (Sambucus Nigra)
The common elderberry, also known as Sambucus Nigra, is a variety that is native to Europe and North America. It is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide. The leaves are green and oval-shaped, and the flowers are white in color. This tree produces clusters of small, dark purple berries, which are high in antioxidants and are often used to make jams and syrups. The common elderberry is a hardy variety that can survive in a wide range of soil types and can grow in partial shade or full sun.
American Elderberry (Sambucus Canadensis)
The American elderberry, also known as Sambucus Canadensis, is a variety that is native to North America. It is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 12 feet tall and 10 feet wide. The leaves are green and serrated, and the flowers are white or pale pink in color. This tree produces large clusters of dark purple berries that are high in antioxidants and are often used in jams and syrups. The American elderberry is a hardy variety that can survive in a wide range of soil types and can grow in partial shade or full sun.
Black Lace Elderberry (Sambucus Nigra 'Eva')
The black lace elderberry, also known as Sambucus Nigra 'Eva', is a variety that is prized for its attractive foliage. It is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 8 feet tall and 6 feet wide. The leaves are dark purple and finely cut, resembling lace. This tree produces clusters of small, light pink flowers, which give way to large clusters of dark purple berries that are high in antioxidants. The black lace elderberry is a hardy variety that can survive in a wide range of soil types and can grow in partial shade or full sun.
Lemony Lace Elderberry (Sambucus Nigra 'Lemony Lace')
The lemony lace elderberry, also known as Sambucus Nigra 'Lemony Lace', is a variety that is prized for its attractive foliage. It is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 6 feet tall and 5 feet wide. The leaves are green and finely cut, and they have a lemon scent when crushed. This tree produces clusters of small, light pink flowers, which give way to small clusters of red berries that are not edible. The lemony lace elderberry is a hardy variety that can survive in a wide range of soil types and can grow in partial shade or full sun.
Conclusion
Choosing the right elderberry tree for your garden can be challenging, but taking the time to research your options will pay off in the long term. Consider the size of your garden, the soil type, and the amount of sunlight the tree will receive when making your decision. Remember that all elderberry trees are beneficial for their health benefits, so no matter which one you choose, you will be adding a valuable addition to your garden.