Generated by Gemini AI for Sambucus racemosa
Red Elderberry Plant Care
Sambucus racemosa L.
This plant's striking red berries are its most distinctive visual feature, making it easily recognizable in the wild. Originating from North America, Sambucus racemosa is highly sought after by plant collectors for its ornamental value and potential medicinal uses.
Every 7–10 days
Full sun to part shade
50–90°F
40–70%
What Is the Red Elderberry?
Red Elderberry (Sambucus racemosa) belongs to the Viburnaceae family within the Sambucus genus. Red Elderberry is native to North America, Europe, Asia. Red Elderberry is also known as Racemose Elderberry, Elderberry, red-berried elder.
Red Elderberry displays a large deciduous shrub growth habit, reaching up to 15 inches tall with a spread of approximately 10 inches. Red Elderberry produces clusters of small, fragrant white flowers.
Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Red Elderberry?
Sambucus racemosa requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–10 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Red Elderberry Need?
Red Elderberry thrives in full sun to part shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–1000 lux. Avoid placing Red Elderberry in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to part shade
200–1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Red Elderberry Prefer?
Sambucus racemosa grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 90°F. Red Elderberry prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.
Temperature
50–90°F
Humidity
40–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Red Elderberry?
Rich, moist, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Red Elderberry to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Red Elderberry?
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Red Elderberry?
Red Elderberry can be propagated through softwood cuttings, hardwood cuttings, seeds.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Red Elderberry Toxic to Pets and Children?
Toxic to Pets & Children
Berries are toxic to humans if ingested in large quantities, mildly toxic to pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Red Elderberry?
Red Elderberry is susceptible to aphids, scale insects, borers. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Red Elderberry Need?
Red Elderberry grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. Native to North America, Europe, Asia, Red Elderberry is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Red Elderberry as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 12a
Keep exploring plants
Red Elderberry is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Sambucus genus — compare its care with other Sambucus species on PlantoScan.
Red Elderberry tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
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