Family: Caprifoliaceae, Honeysuckle view all from this family

Description A large, sometimes tree-like, colony-forming shrub with fragrant clusters of white flowers that produce bright red to purplish-black berries. Leaves are pinnately compound with 5-7 lance-shaped leaflets. Mature height is from 6 to 18 ft.

Warning All species of elders that grow in North America are potentially poisonous if plant parts are ingested. Sensitivity to a toxin varies with a person’s age, weight, physical condition, and individual susceptibility. Children are most vulnerable because of their curiosity and small size. Toxicity can vary in a plant according to season, the plant’s different parts, and its stage of growth; and plants can absorb toxic substances, such as herbicides, pesticides, and pollutants from the water, air, and soil.

Habitat Moist woods, stream banks.

Range Coastal Alaska through w. British Columbia, Washington and Oregon to San Fransisco Bay area.

Comments Severe pruning improves form.

Exposure Preference Shade to partial sun.

Flower March - July

Native Distribution Coastal Alaska through w. British Columbia, Washington & Oregon to San Fransisco Bay area

Site Preference Moist woods, stream banks

Soil Preference Rich, rocky soils.

Wildlife Value Birds eat berries.