American red elder facts for kids

Quick facts for kids American red elder
Sambucus pubens flowers in spring
Scientific classification
Genus:	Sambucus
Species:	pubens

The American red elder, also known as Sambucus pubens, is a type of elder plant. It grows naturally in eastern North America. You can tell it apart from other elder plants by its rounded flower clusters. Another common elder, S. canadensis, has flatter, more open flower clusters.

About the American Red Elder

The American red elder is often called the "red-berried elder" or "red elderberry". It's a very important plant for many birds. They love to eat its bright red berries.

Berries and Their Uses

The red berries of the American red elder are a key food source for many different bird species. Birds can eat these berries safely.

However, for humans, the berries have a bitter taste. Eating a lot of them can cause an upset stomach. It's best not to eat these berries raw.

Sambucus pubens plant growing