Blue Elderberry

Sambucus caerulea

• Hul’qumi’num Name: tth’uykwikw
• Description: Erect deciduous shrub from 4.5 – 9m tall, with large, pinnately-divided opposite leaves. Fragrant, umbel-shaped inflorescences ripen into clusters of blue berries.
• Habitat: Open woods and sunny locations on the edges of forests.
• Harvest: Berries ripen in late summer.
• Edibility: Berries should be cooked prior to consumption! They are used in jams, pies, cough syrups, and wine. The flowers can be dried for tea or used to make cordial.
• Fun Fact: Very uncommon in the Southern Gulf Islands.