Elderberry Live Stakes
Elderberry Live Stakes are perfect for wetlands, ponds, and lakeside plantings. They are also a favorite of wildlife for their rich berries high in antioxidants.
An Overview of the Elder Berry Tree
Elderberry's many uses and possibly one of the most prolific and most accessible to grow plants in the plant kingdom, the Elder Berry tree is known as Sambucus, one of nearly 25 classes of shrubs/trees found in the muscatel family, Adoxaceae. As such, the Sambucus has been re-classified many times due to genetic nuances.
While it is overwhelmingly found in the Northern Hemisphere, it likewise appears in many temperate to subtropical landscapes of Australasia and South America. Characteristics: Also known as Canadensis, the Elderberry tree can grow to heights of 7, 10, and 15 feet with a spread of 6-10 feet. However, much depends on the class of Sambucus Canadensis and its nuances with other plant species in that family.
Characteristics of the Elderberry Live Stakes
Its leaves are oval, and it blossoms off-white heads of flowers that produce a distinctive sweet fragrance. Consequently, the flowers are followed by an abundant supply of purplish-blue berries in the fall. Maturity can be reached within three to four years, depending on the species or subspecies. Soil Adaptability: Elderberry trees can tolerate and adapt to several soil types; however, they do well in the damp, rich soils surrounding swamp/marsh areas.
They resist dry drought conditions; however, adding organic matter around the root area is advisable for planting in sandy regions. They thrive in full sun or partial shade and in U.S.D.A. growing zones three or higher.
Planting Elderberry Live Stakes
As they are typically robust, fast growers, it is best to plant elderberry live stakes in the dormant season. For the trees, at the beginning of spring, nurtured by a thorough watering schedule after the initial planting. Generally, watering should be maintained at least on a once a week basis during the first year.
Landscaping: They are also pest-free and used primarily as beautiful ornaments for hedges and fences. They are well-known for their enduring strength. This, plus their natural purplish-blue beauty, makes them very appealing to homeowners, as they are easy to grow.
Culinary Purposes: The plant's white flowers are typically used to make fine liqueurs such as cordials, wine, champagne, and brandy. Elderberries are a particular favorite for baking pies, preserves, jellies, chutneys, and tea.
The fruit makes an excellent antioxidant consisting of Vitamin C and Potassium; moreover, it has also proven extremely effective as an immune system booster. Today, the Elderberry tree continues to be one of the most popularly sought-after trees in the Western Hemisphere.