Overview
Sambucus canadensis L. var. submollis Rehd. is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Adoxaceae family. It is also commonly known as the American elderberry, sweet elderberry, and common elderberry. This plant is native to North America, primarily found in the eastern and central regions of the United States.
Appearance
Typically growing 5-12 feet tall, the American elderberry has a woody stem that is gray in color. Plant leaves are arranged oppositely, with each leaf being 5 to 9 inches long and pinnately compound with 5-9 lance-shaped leaflets. The plant blooms in early summer, producing flat-topped clusters of small, creamy-white flowers that are about 5 inches in diameter. The plant's fruit is a small, dark purple-black berry that is about 1/4-inch in diameter, appearing in late summer to early fall.
Uses
Sambucus canadensis L. var. submollis Rehd. is a popular plant for medicinal and culinary purposes. The plant's flowers can be used to make elderflower tea, while the berries can be used to make elderberry wine, jam, or syrup. Elderberry is also known to have antiviral properties and has been used to treat colds, flu, and other respiratory problems. Additionally, the plant's bark and leaves can be used as a natural insect repellent.
Aside from its uses in food and medicine, the American elderberry is also widely used in ornamental gardening. Its clusters of white flowers and dark berries make it an attractive landscaping plant and a popular choice for wildlife gardens as it provides a habitat and food source for birds and other wildlife.
Light Requirements
Sambucus canadensis L. var. submollis Rehd. typically requires full sun to partial shade conditions for optimal growth. In shaded areas, the plant will still grow but may produce fewer flowers and fruits. It is important to note that too much direct sunlight may cause leaf scorching and stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefer an average temperature of 60 – 75°F. The ideal temperature for planting is between 55 - 65°F, which will ensure optimal root growth. During the winter, the plant goes dormant, and the leaves fall off, tolerating temperatures as low as 40°F.
Soil Requirements
Sambucus canadensis L. var. submollis Rehd. thrives in moist but well-draining soils. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range of 5.5 – 7.5. The plant can grow in loamy, sandy or clay soils, as long as there is proper drainage. The soil should be rich in organic matter and nutrients, and it is recommended to add compost or fertilizer to create an ideal growing environment.
Cultivation Methods
Sambucus canadensis L. var. submollis Rehd. is a deciduous plant that thrives in full sun or partial shade. It is an adaptable plant that grows in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as the soil is well-drained. The plant is propagated through seeds or cuttings in early spring or late fall. When planting, ensure that the hole is twice the size of the root ball, and the plant is planted at the same depth it was in the previous container.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering during the winter season, but ensure that the soil remains slightly moist. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can lead to stunted growth and wilting.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization, especially during its active growing season. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula, in early spring and mid-summer. Follow the package instructions, but generally, use about one pound of fertilizer per 100 square feet of soil. Avoid overfertilizing, as it can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced fruit production.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential aspect of caring for Sambucus canadensis L. var. submollis Rehd. The plant can be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove any dead wood, damaged branches, and suckers growing around the base of the plant. Prune the plant to maintain its desired shape and size, and promote airflow and sunlight penetration in the plant canopy. Always use sterilized pruning equipment to avoid the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Sambucus canadensis L. var. submollis Rehd.
Sambucus canadensis L. var. submollis Rehd., commonly known as American black elderberry, is a flowering shrub that produces clusters of small, edible, dark purple berries. It is a hardy perennial that is native to North America and is widely used for its medicinal and ornamental value.
Seed Propagation
One way to propagate Sambucus canadensis L. var. submollis Rehd. is through seed propagation. The seeds can be collected from ripe berries and planted in the fall or spring. The planting area should be prepared by adding compost and other organic matter to the soil. Seeds should be planted 1/4 inch deep and watered regularly. Germination can take two to three months, and seedlings should be transplanted to a permanent location when they are six inches tall.
Cuttings Propagation
Another method of propagation for Sambucus canadensis L. var. submollis Rehd. is through cuttings. Softwood or hardwood cuttings can be taken from the plant in the late summer or early fall and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be six to eight inches long and should have at least two nodes. A rooting hormone can be used to improve the chances of successful rooting. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a warm, bright location until roots have formed, and then they can be transplanted to a permanent location.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is a third method to propagate Sambucus canadensis L. var. submollis Rehd. This method involves dividing the plant into sections during the late fall or early spring. A sharp, sterilized tool should be used to cut the plant into sections, being careful to include enough roots with each section. The sections should be replanted immediately into a well-draining soil mix and watered regularly until established.
Overall, Sambucus canadensis L. var. submollis Rehd. is a hardy plant that can be propagated using several methods. By experimenting with different propagation methods, gardeners can learn which method works best for their specific needs.
Disease and Pest Management for Sambucus canadensis L. var. submollis Rehd.
Sambucus canadensis L. var. submollis Rehd., commonly known as American black elderberry, is a shrub native to North America. While it is a hardy plant, it is still vulnerable to certain diseases and pests. Here are some common issues that can affect Sambucus canadensis L. var. submollis Rehd. and some ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Sambucus canadensis L. var. submollis Rehd. can be affected by a range of diseases including:
- Anthracnose
- Verticillium wilt
- Powdery mildew
- Leaf spot
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes leaf spots and blotches on the plant. It can be managed by removing infected plant debris and ensuring good air circulation around the plant. Verticillium wilt is another fungal disease that can cause wilt, leaf yellowing, and dieback. It can be difficult to manage and it may require the removal of infected plants to prevent the spread of the disease. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the plant's leaves and stems. It can be managed by ensuring the plant is not crowded and by removing infected plant debris. Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular spots on the plant's leaves. It can be managed by removing infected plant debris and ensuring good air circulation around the plant.
Common Pests
Sambucus canadensis L. var. submollis Rehd. can also be affected by a range of pests including:
- Aphids
- Spider mites
- Scale insects
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can suck the sap from the plant's leaves and stems. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water, introducing natural predators such as ladybugs, or applying insecticidal soap. Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant, causing small white or yellow spots on the leaves. They can be managed by introducing natural predators such as ladybugs, applying insecticidal soap, or spraying the plant with neem oil. Scale insects are small pests that attach themselves to the plant's stems and leaves, feeding on the sap. They can be managed by removing them manually with a soft cloth or by applying horticultural oil to the plant.
Overall, the best way to manage diseases and pests affecting Sambucus canadensis L. var. submollis Rehd. is to maintain good plant health through proper watering and fertilization, ensuring good air circulation around the plant, and promptly removing infected plant debris.
