June 27, 2014
Red-berried Elderberry, Sambucus pubens
The berries of this large native shrub are startlingly bright red - a signal to birds that they are ready to be eaten. This and other red-berried elders are planted near the base of the Glacken Slope. More common, and growing wild on the Reservation, are common elders, S. Canadensis. Their berries are purplish-black, and can be used for making jams and wine. The berries of both species are very tart.