American Elderberry
Sambucus canadensis
Adoxaceae, Caprifoliaceae · broadleaf deciduous shrub · native
Last updated
Data Coverage 4 of 6 dimensions
Quick Facts
Height
5–12 ft
Spread
13 ft
Growth Rate
Fast
Light
Part Shade
Soil
Moist
Water
Moderate
Hardiness
Zone Zones 3a–8b
Bloom Time
June to July
Fall Color
Yellow
Origin
eastern and central North America, from Nova Scotia and
Phenological Calendar
As of April 23, 2026, Puget Sound stations range from 1434.4 to 1592.7 GDD₃₂. American Elderberry typically reaches 'first bloom' at 2450 GDD₃₂, predicted around Jun 1.
Regional Season Tracker
GDD₃₂ accumulation across 7 Puget Sound stations · as of Apr 23, 2026| Station | GDD₃₂ | Current Stage | Next | To Go |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Issaquah / East King | 1,593 | Pre-season | 'First bloom' | 857 |
| Seattle / UW | 1,554 | Pre-season | 'First bloom' | 896 |
| Kent / Auburn | 1,537 | Pre-season | 'First bloom' | 913 |
| Olympia / Tumwater | 1,505 | Pre-season | 'First bloom' | 946 |
| Bellingham / Whatcom | 1,483 | Pre-season | 'First bloom' | 967 |
| Tacoma / Puyallup | 1,472 | Pre-season | 'First bloom' | 978 |
| Sequim / Rain Shadow | 1,434 | Pre-season | 'First bloom' | 1,016 |
| Stage | GDD32 | Typical Window |
|---|---|---|
| ○ 'First bloom' BBCH '61' NEXT | 2450 | '' est. Jun 1 (avg) |
| 'Full bloom' BBCH '65' | 2878 | '' est. Jun 16 (avg) |
Range: 1998–2287 GDD₃₂
(6yr)
GDD = Growing Degree Days (base 32°F, Jan 1 start). Why base 32? Hover over GDD values for source details. Season tracker for Kent / Auburn as of Apr 23, 2026. Predicted dates use 16-day weather forecast through May 9, 2026, then climate normals.