Elderberry is a common shrub of moist soils and is often found along creeks, rivers, lakes and other low-lying areas with wet to medium soils. Large, white, ornate flower clusters appear June to July and are rather fragrant. This is followed by a prolific amount of fruit that is edible (with the addition of copious amounts of sugar) and is also much appreciated by a great many birds. The fruit bearing stalks also turn pink and are attractive in their own right even after the fruit is gone. Shrubs can be large and rambling reaching 12 feet high and as wide. Best in full sun but can tolerate part shade. Zone 3-9 / VA ecotype