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Description
Sambucus Racemosa, also known as red elderberry, is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America. It belongs to the Adoxaceae family and can grow up to 20 feet tall. The shrub blooms in early summer, producing large clusters of small, white flowers. The flowers are followed by berries that range in color from bright red to dark purple-black. The berries are not edible and can cause stomach upset if ingested.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Adoxaceae |
| Genus | Sambucus |
Appearance
Sambucus Racemosa has a multi-stemmed growth habit and can grow up to 20 feet tall. The leaves are pinnately compound and can reach up to 12 inches in length. The leaflets are oval-shaped and have serrated edges. The flowers are small and white, and are arranged in large, flat-topped clusters. The berries are small and round, and range in color from bright red to dark purple-black.
Care Guide
Sambucus Racemosa prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is adaptable to a wide range of soil types, but prefers slightly acidic soil. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but be careful not to overwater, as this can cause root rot. Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Sambucus Racemosa is hardy in zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sambucus Racemosa is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. To prevent these problems, keep the plant healthy and well-watered, and prune out any diseased or damaged branches.
Habitat
Sambucus Racemosa is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and wetlands. It is often used in landscaping as a specimen plant or as a screen.
Question and Answer
Q: Are the berries of Sambucus Racemosa edible?
A: No, the berries of Sambucus Racemosa are not edible and can cause stomach upset if ingested.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Sambucus Racemosa?
A: Sambucus Racemosa is hardy in zones 3-7.
Q: What pests and diseases are Sambucus Racemosa susceptible to?
A: Sambucus Racemosa is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, powdery mildew, and leaf spot.
Q: What is the preferred soil type for Sambucus Racemosa?
A: Sambucus Racemosa is adaptable to a wide range of soil types, but prefers slightly acidic soil.
Related Plants
- Sambucus Canadensis
- Sambucus Nigra
- Sambucus Cerulea
References
- USDA Plants Database: Sambucus racemosa
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Sambucus racemosa
- Washington Native Plant Society: Sambucus racemosa
