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Description
Sambucus Williamsii, also known as Williams Elderberry or Korean Elder, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Adoxaceae family. It is native to China, Korea, and Japan and is widely grown for ornamental and medicinal purposes. The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and has a spreading habit with multiple stems. Its leaves are dark green, opposite, and pinnately compound with 5-7 leaflets. The flowers are small, creamy-white, and appear in large flat-topped clusters in late spring to early summer. The fruit is a dark purple-black berry that matures in late summer to early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Adoxaceae |
| Genus | Sambucus |
Appearance
Sambucus Williamsii is a striking plant that can add a lot of visual interest to any garden. Its leaves are dark green and glossy, and its flowers are creamy-white and have a sweet fragrance. The plant’s fruit is a dark purple-black color and can be used to make jams, jellies, and wine. The shrub’s stems are sturdy and can be pruned to maintain its shape and size.
Care Guide
Water: Sambucus Williamsii requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: The plant benefits from regular fertilization, especially during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks.Soil: The shrub prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils.Sunlight: Sambucus Williamsii prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not bloom as well in shaded areas.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sambucus Williamsii is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and canker. It is also attractive to aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. To prevent these issues, it is important to maintain good sanitation and avoid over-fertilizing.
Habitat
Sambucus Williamsii is native to China, Korea, and Japan and is commonly found in forests, shrublands, and along streams. It prefers moist and well-draining soils and can tolerate a range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Sambucus Williamsii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization.Q: Is Sambucus Williamsii deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is generally deer-resistant, but it may be attractive to other animals like rabbits.Q: Can Sambucus Williamsii be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, the plant’s flowers, fruit, and bark have been used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.Q: What is the best time to prune Sambucus Williamsii?
A: The plant can be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Sambucus Nigra
- Sambucus Canadensis
- Sambucus Racemosa
- Sambucus Ebulus
References
- “Sambucus Williamsii”, Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c900
- “Sambucus Williamsii”, Royal Horticultural Society, https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/100221/Sambucus-williamsii/Details
- “Sambucus Williamsii”, Plants for a Future, https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Sambucus+williamsii
