Size of an Elderberry

Plant Growth

• The elder is a small tree, growing between 12 feet for the American Elder and 30 feet for the European Elder. The tree grows clusters of white flowers and black or purple berries.

Berry Size

• The tiny elder berries grow in size similar to that of small, petite peas. When the berries are ripe, they turn a shiny black-violet color in clusters on red stalks.

Cautions

• Elder roots, stems and leaves release cyanide and are not edible. The flowers and berries are edible, but elder berries must be cooked.