Blue Elderberry
Sambucus nigra subsp. cerulea
Adoxaceae, Caprifoliaceae · broadleaf deciduous tree · native
Last updated
This profile synthesizes data from multiple published sources. Expert field review is in progress.
Blue elderberry is classified as a subspecies of Sambucus nigra, native to western North America from British Columbia to California. This shrub or small tree produces blue to blue-black berries with a characteristic waxy coating, distinguishing it from the black berries of European elderberry subspecies.
Blue elderberry tolerates wet riparian conditions and drier uplands, adapting to a range of soils and moisture levels. The berries are less preferred for culinary use than some selections of S. nigra, though they remain an important wildlife food. The plant is extremely cold-hardy and grows quickly once established.
Quick Facts
Phenological Calendar
As of April 23, 2026, Puget Sound stations range from 1434.4 to 1592.7 GDD₃₂. Blue Elderberry has passed 'leaf emergence' (1326 GDD₃₂).
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 | 'Leaf emergence' | — | — |
| Seattle / UW | 1,554 | 'Leaf emergence' | — | — |
| Kent / Auburn | 1,537 | 'Leaf emergence' | — | — |
| Olympia / Tumwater | 1,505 | 'Leaf emergence' | — | — |
| Bellingham / Whatcom | 1,483 | 'Leaf emergence' | — | — |
| Tacoma / Puyallup | 1,472 | 'Leaf emergence' | — | — |
| Sequim / Rain Shadow | 1,434 | 'Leaf emergence' | — | — |
| Stage | GDD32 | Typical Window |
|---|---|---|
| 'Bud break' BBCH '07' | 812 | '' |
| ● 'Leaf emergence' BBCH '11' NOW | 1326 | '' |
GDD = Growing Degree Days (base 32°F, Jan 1 start). Why base 32? GDD₃₂ thresholds from USA National Phenology Network citizen science observations (WA+OR). Season tracker for Kent / Auburn as of Apr 23, 2026. Predicted dates use 16-day weather forecast through May 10, 2026, then climate normals.