American Elderberry – A fast growing edible perennial native to much of the United States (including Texas!). Although it dies back to the ground each winter, American Elderberry quickly grows up to 12 feet tall by the beginning of summer, and produces cloud-like blooms of fragrant flowers. These flowers are edible and are widely used to make syrups (excellent in mock/cocktails). In early to mid fall, these blooms are replaced by small black berries that sit atop flat branches. These berries are not edible raw, but once they are cooked down they can be used in syrups, jams, teas, and many other medicinal remedies! Many cough drops and syrups today use Elderberry to help soothe sore throats, so why not skip the grocery store and make your own at home? The seeds inside the fruit will germinate easily, but you can easily avoid unwanted spread by simply using up all of the fruits the plant has to offer! Plant in full or part sun. Soil type is irrelevant, as this plant can grow happily just about anywhere. American Elderberry looks its best and produces the most fruit when its well watered and fertilized, but it can tolerant stints of drought.