American Elderberry
Near 'Full bloom'Sambucus canadensis
Adoxaceae, Caprifoliaceae · broadleaf deciduous shrub · introduced
Last updated
Plant Profile
Size & Form
Height
5–12 ft
Spread
13 ft
Growth Rate
Fast
Site Requirements
Light
Part Shade
Soil Drainage
Moist
Soil pH
4.5-8.5
Water
Moderate
Hardiness
Zones 3a–8b
Ornamental Interest
Bloom Time
June to July
Fall Color
Yellow
Origin
eastern and central North America, from Nova Scotia and
Diseases: Regionally Documented (1)
Pests: Regionally Documented (2)
Phenological Calendar
As of June 3, 2026, Puget Sound stations range from 2435.5 to 2672.8 GDD₃₂. American Elderberry has reached 'first bloom' (2450 GDD₃₂) and is approaching 'full bloom', predicted around Jun 12.
Regional Season Tracker
GDD₃₂ accumulation across 7 Puget Sound stations · as of Jun 3, 2026| Station | GDD₃₂ | Current Stage | Next | To Go |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Issaquah / East King | 2,673 | 'First bloom' | 'Full bloom' | 205 |
| Kent / Auburn | 2,665 | 'First bloom' | 'Full bloom' | 213 |
| Seattle / UW | 2,610 | 'First bloom' | 'Full bloom' | 268 |
| Olympia / Tumwater | 2,570 | 'First bloom' | 'Full bloom' | 309 |
| Tacoma / Puyallup | 2,535 | 'First bloom' | 'Full bloom' | 343 |
| Bellingham / Whatcom | 2,533 | 'First bloom' | 'Full bloom' | 345 |
| Sequim / Rain Shadow | 2,436 | Pre-season | 'First bloom' | 15 |
View full calendar (2 stages)
| Stage | GDD32 | Typical Window |
|---|---|---|
| ● 'First bloom' BBCH '61' NOW | 2450 | '' |
| ○ 'Full bloom' BBCH '65' NEXT | 2878 | '' est. Jun 12 (forecast) |
Range: 1998–2287 GDD₃₂
(6yr)
Source: 'Master catalog (OSU), converted GDD50->GDD32 via Kent bloom-date mapping' About GDD₃₂ →
Season tracker for Kent / Auburn as of Jun 3, 2026. Predicted dates use 16-day weather forecast through Jun 19, 2026, then climate normals.
Data Maturity Structured Multiple sources. Expert review underway.