Often people come to me looking for Elderberry because of childhood memories gathering the berries.  And increasingly, people are seeking Elderberry as a cure for  -- get this -- the common cold. 
 
     Elderberry, in fact, has been scientifically proven to reduce cold symptoms and boost the immune system.  
 
     Health benefits aside, Elderberry also makes a great ornamental plant and also can be used as a hedge.  It's a fast grower, and consequently short lived, but sends up new sprouts routinely. Elderberry can be pruned to the ground every other year to control growth.
 
     The berries are highly nutritious when cooked and often made into jams, pies, tea and wine.  Elderberries should not be eaten raw.
 
     Elderberry also features large clusters of spring flowers that always remind me of Queen Anne's Lace.  The flowers smell citrusy and attract butterflies, native bees and a host of other pollinators.  
 
     Fun fact: Native Americans and early pioneers used various parts of the eldeberry to treat swellings and respiratory diseases, and to reduce fever.