Elderberry

Mexican elderberry (or blue elderberry, Sambucus nigra) is an open green shrub or small tree that grows throughout the Reserve wherever a little extra fresh water is available. Even though roots, leaves, stems and green berries are toxic, elderberry was an important food and medicinal plant for Native Americans. Berries were eaten fresh or dried for use later in the season. The flowers were brewed into a medicinal broth. Early settlers made elderberry jams and wines. Native peoples would make flutes from the hollowed-out branches.