Elderberry plants (Sambucus genus) are cultivated for their ornamental value and their clusters of edible berries and flowers. Although often called “trees,” elderberries are botanically classified as large, multi-stemmed shrubs. They lack the single, permanent trunk of a true tree, instead producing new, vigorous growth, called canes, directly from the base each year. This growth habit defines their ultimate mature size.
Defining the Typical Size and Form
The mature dimensions of an elderberry depend significantly on the species, generally falling between a large shrub and a small tree. The American Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) typically reaches 5 to 12 feet tall, with a nearly equal spread of 6 to 12 feet. In ideal conditions, this species often settles into a dense, rounded form around 8 to 10 feet tall.
The European Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) is notably larger and includes many popular ornamental cultivars. This species commonly reaches between 8 and 20 feet tall and wide, functioning as a substantial shrub or small tree. Exceptional specimens of S. nigra have been recorded up to 33 feet, leading to its common name, elder tree.
The ultimate size is determined by the plant’s cane structure. Elderberries constantly renew themselves by sending up new shoots from the root crown. This continuous cycle of growth prevents a single trunk from forming. Growers seeking smaller options can select dwarf cultivars, such as ‘Ranch,’ which remains a compact 5 to 6 feet tall and wide. Another option is the low-growing ornamental Sambucus ebulus, which rarely exceeds two feet in height.
Key Factors Influencing Mature Dimensions
The environment plays a significant role in determining the plant’s final size within its genetic range. Elderberries thrive in full sun, which maximizes vegetative growth and leads to the largest mature dimensions. Plants in partial shade exhibit slower growth rates and a more open canopy, resulting in a smaller final size.
Soil and Moisture
Soil conditions also strongly influence the size of the mature plant. Elderberries prefer moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. When grown in rich, consistently damp soil, the plant’s vigor increases, pushing it to the upper limits of its height and spread. Conversely, some cultivars tolerate poor, non-fertile soils and drought, which naturally keeps their size compact.
Cultivar Selection
The choice of cultivar is a primary factor, as some are bred to be more vigorous than others. For instance, ‘Wyldewood’ is known for its intense vegetative growth, making it larger than standard American Elderberry selections. Selecting a variety with a naturally smaller or more columnar habit, such as ‘Black Tower,’ is the most reliable way to ensure a smaller mature size regardless of environmental factors.
Managing Growth Through Pruning
Elderberries are fast-growing and produce numerous canes, requiring active management through pruning to control size and maximize fruit production. The primary strategy for size control is renewal pruning, performed annually during late winter or early spring dormancy. This involves removing the oldest, least productive canes down to the ground level.
Removing old canes encourages new, vigorous shoots from the base, which bear the most flowers and fruit the following year. This technique keeps the overall plant height and width in check by continuously cycling out older growth. If temporary height reduction is needed on a single branch, a heading cut shortens the branch back to a bud or lateral branch.
Heading cuts should be used sparingly for long-term size reduction, as they stimulate dense, bushy growth and often create an unnatural shape. A thinning cut, where an entire cane is removed at its point of origin, is the preferred method for reducing overall size and density. This maintains the plant’s natural, open structure and ensures sufficient light and air circulation.