If you’re planning your garden layout, you definitely need to keep one thing in mind: elderberry bushes can get absolutely massive! Before you dig that hole, it’s a good idea to check out how big your specific variety is going to get. If you’re working with a smaller backyard, don’t worry—you can always opt for dwarf varieties or columnar elderberries. These compact versions even work great grown in pots on a balcony or patio.
Common Elderberry Varieties and Their Growth Rates
Common Black Elderberry can really take over a garden if you aren’t careful, but other varieties are known for their speedy growth too. Here’s a quick breakdown of how tall they get and how much they typically grow each year:
- Black Elderberry: Can reach up to 16 feet tall, growing about 20 to 28 inches per year.
- Blue Elderberry: Reaches heights of up to 13 feet, with an annual growth of 8 to 16 inches.
- Red Elderberry: Also hits about 13 feet tall and grows roughly 20 inches a year.
- American (Canadian) Elderberry: Grows up to 10 feet tall, adding about 8 to 16 inches annually.
- Columnar Red-Leaf Elderberry: A slimmer choice that tops out at 8 feet, growing about 4 to 10 inches a year.
- Dwarf Elderberry: The “little guy” of the family, reaching a maximum of 5 feet with a slow growth rate of 4 to 10 inches per year.
The Most Popular (and Largest) Variety
Most gardeners go for the classic Black Elderberry, which can spread out up to 13 feet wide. If you plant it as a standalone feature—like near a garden entrance—it looks incredibly impressive.
As long as you give it enough room to breathe and a little TLC, this shrub will reward you with beautiful blooms and plenty of berries for all your favorite homemade treats!
