Sambucus mexicana (Mexican Elderberry, Tapiro)

Photographs

My photos:

This photo of a leafy branch was taken in January at Caspers Wilderness Park.

Click the thumbnail below to see the entire tree.

More photos:

Las Pilitas has a marvelous photo that puts mine to shame!
A photo of the berries.

click photo to enlarge

Plant Information

Caprifoliaceae

In the garden:

This a large shrub or small tree which is deciduous. It will reach a height between 6 and 30 feet and will have a rounded appearance. Nicely shaped specimens look great with leaves, but will look scrawny in the winter when leafless. The leaves are pinnately compound and green. It blooms from March to September with small white flowers, which are attractive. The berries are very small and either blue or white, with a frosted appearance. Birds are attracted to the fruit. This tree is a good background plant in natural gardens. In a large garden, it can be effective as a screen or windbreak. During the dormant season, prune it hard to ensure denseness. New growth will sprout readily from the stump. It thrives in sun or shade, and in damp or dry conditions. It will take wet conditions with good drainage. This plant is poisonous.

In the wild:

Native to open flats and cismontane valleys and canyons, below 4500 feet. Used in habitat restoration.

Ethnobotany:

I haven't found much information on Sambucus mexicana being poison, but there is no need to take chances! If you use the berries, cook them - and don't use the leaves and stems.

The berries are used in jams, jellies, pies, and wine. A tea made from the flowers was used by native people to treat upper respiratory illnesses. The wood was sometimes used to make bows. The leaves and flowers were used externally for medicinal purposes. Dyes were made from various parts of the plant.

Field Trips
Anza Borrego Caspers Holy Jim Canyon Idyllwild
Joshua Tree Mt Palomar Rancho Santa Ana Torrey Pines

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