Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) is a deciduous shrub or small tree. S. nigra produces clusters of large, flat, fragrant white tiny umbel-like panicles; these flowers will appear in the spring, and remain in bloom until the fall. Hanging clusters of blue-black, fleshy berries appear in late fall, in replace of the flowers. The root system is shallow and rhizomatous.
Toxic components
All parts of S. nigra contains cyanogenic glycosides,which can be toxic to horses if ingested. The bark also contains calcium oxalate crystals.
