Elderberries are drought and cold tolerant. They also tolerate almost any moisture condition and soil type. They grow at a pH of 5.5 to 7.5, but prefer a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. It's important to cultivate these shrubs carefully, because the root system is shallow and can easily be damaged. Elderberries have few pests, and natural predators often control outbreaks.
Elderberries are native shrubs that produce fruit used in jellies, pies and wine. The fruit is seedy and tart, but high in vitamin C. These shrubs also are used for landscaping and wildlife habitat.
For more information on planting elderberries in Colorado please see the PlantTalk script Elderberries.
