Red Elderberry,Sambucus racemosa ssp. pubens var. arborescens
Family: Caprifoliacceae - HONEYSUCKLE FAMILY
Genus: Sambucus from Greek sambuke, a musical instrument of elderwood
Species: racemosa means 'with flowers in racemes'; pubens means 'downy'
aka Red Elder, Red-fruited Elder. An impressive shrub which may grow to 15' (5 m) hence the varietal name arborescens or 'tree-like'. Producing a rather heavy unpleasant fragrance the big creamy white clusters host a variety of insects. Each leaf has 5 - 7 saw-toothed leaflets which are 2" - 6" long. The red berries were an important food for native people when cooked since raw berries may cause nausea. Common in wet areas and along streams below 5000' elevation. (ref. Biek, Clark, Pojar)
Trail Notes:
Trail/Hike: Van Trump Park/Comet Falls
Date: July 25, 2008
Location: approx. midway between trail head and Comet Falls
