The American Elder is a shrub reaching heights of 6 to 10 feet. It's light gray, numberous stems are generally smooth and the younger ones containing a large white pith. The leaves are large and consist of 5 to 11 leaflets about 2 to 5 inches in length borne on short stalks. About June or July the flat-topped, fragrant clusters appear composed or numberous, 5-lobed, wheel-shaped, creamy-white flowers. The clusters of edible fruits (when cooked) which follow are black or a very dark purple, small, round, shiny, and juicy. Some other names of the American Elder are Sweet Elder, Sambucus, Elder Flowers, Elder Blows, Black Elder, Elderberry, Common Elder, and Rob Elder. The American Elder is also a native American shrub. It produces an edible fruit that can be used in wines, jellies and pies. The American Elder can reach 6-12 feet in height.