Overview
Sambucus nigra L. ssp. cerulea (Raf.) R. Bolli, commonly known as blue elderberry, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Caprifoliaceae family. This plant is native to the western United States, specifically from British Columbia to California, and can be found growing in a variety of habitats.
General Appearance
The blue elderberry typically grows to be around 10 to 30 feet tall and can form multi-stemmed clumps. The bark is light brown with prominent lenticels, and the leaves are pinnately compound with 5 to 9 leaflets that are 2 to 6 inches long and 1 to 2 inches wide. The flowers bloom in early summer and are flat-topped clusters of creamy white flowers that are 4 to 6 inches in diameter. The fruits are dark blue to black berries that are around 1/4 inch in diameter and grow in clusters.
Common Names
Blue elderberry is also commonly referred to as Mexican elderberry, blueberry elder, and Tapiro.
Uses
Blue elderberry has been used for medicinal purposes by Native American tribes for centuries. The bark, leaves, and berries all have various traditional uses, including treating respiratory illnesses and fevers. The berries of the blue elderberry are also commonly used to make jams, jellies, and wine. Additionally, the plant is used by wildlife for food and shelter, and it is an important species for pollinator habitat.
Light Requirements
The Sambucus nigra L. ssp. cerulea (Raf.) R. Bolli requires partial to full sunlight. It can tolerate shade but may produce fewer blooms and fruits in shady conditions. These plants grow best in areas with six or more hours of direct sun exposure per day.
Temperature Requirements
The Sambucus nigra L. ssp. cerulea (Raf.) R. Bolli is hardy to USDA Zones 4 to 7. It grows well in temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. These plants can tolerate both hot and cold temperatures but prefer cooler climates. Avoid planting in areas prone to frost or extreme heat.
Soil Requirements
These plants grow well in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal for optimal growth. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. The Sambucus nigra L. ssp. cerulea (Raf.) R. Bolli can tolerate drought conditions but grows best with regular watering.
Cultivation Methods
Sambucus nigra L. ssp. cerulea (Raf.) R. Bolli is a hardy perennial plant that can thrive in a range of soil types and climatic conditions. It is generally propagated through seed or cuttings, with the latter being the more reliable option due to the low germination rates of the former. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering, particularly during the hot summer months when the soil may dry out quickly. It is essential to avoid over-watering the plant, as this can lead to root rot. The ideal watering frequency will depend on the soil type and climate, but generally, the plant should be watered deeply once a week.
Fertilization
The plant benefits from an annual application of fertilizer in the spring. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen should be used to promote healthy growth and development. Alternatively, organic fertilizers such as compost or manure can be applied, which will also improve soil structure and fertility.
Pruning
Sambucus nigra L. ssp. cerulea (Raf.) R. Bolli requires annual pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Pruning should be carried out in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Dead, damaged or diseased branches should be removed, as well as any crossing branches. The main stems should be pruned back to approximately half their height to encourage the growth of new branches.
Propagation of Sambucus nigra L. ssp. cerulea (Raf.) R. Bolli
Sambucus nigra L. ssp. cerulea (Raf.) R. Bolli, commonly known as Blue Elderberry, can be propagated by various methods which include:
Seed Propagation
Blue Elderberry plants can be propagated through seed, which can be collected from the ripe fruit in fall. The seeds should be soaked overnight, immediately sown in the soil in a prepared seed bed, and then covered with soil. If the right conditions are met, the seeds usually germinate in the following spring.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings can also be used for propagating Blue Elderberry plants, with softwood cuttings taken during the growing season being the most effective. The cuttings are taken with a sharp, clean knife from new growth that is flexible and healthy. They should be at least six inches long and stripped of all but the top few leaves. The cuttings should be planted in a rooting medium with about half the length buried in the soil and kept moist until they develop roots.
Suckers Propagation
Sambucus nigra L. ssp. cerulea (Raf.) R. Bolli is capable of producing suckers around the base of the plant which can be dug up and replanted as separate plants. Suckers can be separated from the parent plant when they are at least in their second year of growth.
Division Propagation
Blue Elderberry plants can be propagated by dividing an existing plant into two or more separate plants. Division should be done in early spring or fall, making sure that each division has a healthy section of roots. The divisions can be transplanted in a prepared and well-drained soil bed.
Disease and Pest Management for Sambucus nigra L. ssp. cerulea (Raf.) R. Bolli
Sambucus nigra L. ssp. cerulea (Raf.) R. Bolli, also known as blue elderberry, is a popular landscape plant that is valued for its attractive foliage and beautiful clusters of blue-black berries. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to a variety of diseases and pests that can impact its growth and overall health. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect Sambucus nigra L. ssp. cerulea and suggested ways to manage them.
Diseases
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white or grey powdery coating on leaves. It can be managed by ensuring proper air circulation around the plant, avoiding overhead watering, and removing infected leaves and branches.
Verticillium Wilt: Verticillium wilt is a fungal disease that causes the leaves of the plant to turn yellow and wilt. It can be managed by avoiding waterlogging and ensuring proper drainage, rotating crops, and pruning the affected branches.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes dark, sunken spots on leaves and stems. It can be managed by removing and destroying infected plant material, ensuring proper air circulation around the plant, and applying a fungicide as needed.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can cause curling and yellowing of leaves, as well as the secretion of a sticky substance known as honeydew. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water, applying insecticidal soap, or releasing beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings.
Mites: Mites are tiny pests that can cause webbing on leaves and discoloration of foliage. They can be managed by ensuring proper air circulation around the plant, removing and destroying infected plant material, and applying a miticide as needed.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies and can cause extensive damage to foliage. They can be managed by manually removing them from the plant, applying a Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray, or releasing natural predators such as birds and wasps.
In conclusion, by being vigilant and taking proactive measures to manage diseases and pests, Sambucus nigra L. ssp. cerulea (Raf.) R. Bolli can remain healthy and thrive in any landscape setting. Regular inspection and monitoring of the plant can help catch any potential issues before they become more serious.
