Angiosperms (Flowering Plants) • Earth.com

Red elder

(Sambucus racemosa racemosa)

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Description

Sambucus racemosa racemosa, commonly known as Red Elderberry, is a deciduous shrub native to North America. It is a member of the Caprifoliaceae family and is closely related to other species of Elderberry, including the European Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) and Blue Elderberry (Sambucus cerulea). In this article, we will explore the characteristics, distribution, habitat, uses, and cultivation of Sambucus racemosa racemosa. Characteristics Red Elderberry is a multi-stemmed shrub that can reach up to 15 feet in height. It has an open, spreading habit with arching branches that can form dense thickets. The bark of the Red Elderberry is grayish-brown and slightly rough, with conspicuous lenticels. The leaves are compound, consisting of 5-7 leaflets that are elliptical to lanceolate in shape and have serrated margins. The leaflets are dark green and have a slightly hairy surface on the underside. The flowers of the Red Elderberry are borne in large, flat-topped clusters or racemes that can be up to 12 inches in diameter. The individual flowers are small and white, with five petals and five stamens. The fruit is a small, round, red berry that is clustered in dense clusters, with each cluster containing many individual berries. Distribution and Habitat Red Elderberry is native to North America, ranging from Alaska to Newfoundland and south to California and North Carolina. It can be found growing in a wide range of habitats, including moist to wet forests, stream banks, swamps, and open meadows. It is often found growing in disturbed areas, such as clearcuts or along roadsides, and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. Uses Red Elderberry has a long history of use by Indigenous peoples for both food and medicine. The berries are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. They have a slightly bitter taste and are often used in jams, jellies, pies, and wines. However, the raw berries can cause nausea and vomiting in some individuals, and the seeds and stems contain a toxic compound called cyanide, which can be harmful if consumed in large quantities. Therefore, it is important to cook the berries thoroughly before eating them. In addition to its culinary uses, Red Elderberry has also been used for its medicinal properties. The bark, leaves, and berries have been used to treat a variety of ailments, including colds, flu, fever, and rheumatism. The flowers have been used to make a tea that is said to help alleviate coughs and colds. Cultivation Red Elderberry is a relatively easy plant to grow, and it is a good choice for naturalizing in a garden or landscape. It prefers moist, well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. It can be propagated from seed, cuttings, or by layering. The plant can be pruned in the fall or winter to maintain its shape and to remove any dead or damaged branches. In conclusion, Sambucus racemosa racemosa, or Red Elderberry, is a valuable native plant with a long history of use by Indigenous peoples for food and medicine. It is an attractive shrub that is easy to grow and is a good choice for naturalizing in a garden or landscape. However, it is important to note that the raw berries can be toxic and should be cooked thoroughly before consumption. As with any plant, it is always best to do your research and consult with a knowledgeable expert before using it for any purpose.

Taxonomic tree:

Domain:
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum:
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order:Dipsacales
Family:Adoxaceae
Genus:Sambucus
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