Elderberry

The elderberry is a genus of deciduous shrubs or small trees known for its medicinal and culinary uses, especially in syrups, jams, and wine. **Description:** * **Appearance:** A fast-growing, multi-stemmed shrub or small tree, reaching up to 12-20 feet depending on the species. * **Leaves:** **Pinnately compound** (feather-like) with serrated (toothed) leaflets, giving the foliage a lacey appearance. * **Flowers:** Large, flat-topped clusters (*cymes*) of small, creamy-white, often fragrant flowers (**elderflowers**) bloom in late spring/early summer. * **Fruit:** Clusters of small, berry-like drupes that ripen to a **dark purple-black** or blue-black in late summer/early fall. * **Key Fact:** While the **cooked** berries and flowers are edible and widely used, the leaves, stems, roots, and **raw/unripe berries** contain compounds that can be toxic to humans. ---