American elder, or Sambucus nigra ssp. canadensis, is a deciduous shrub native to North America that typically grows in wet soils. This plant is known for its beautiful white flowers and berries, which are used for making various medicinal remedies. Synonyms for American elder include sweet elder, bore tree, black elder, and elderberry. These names refer to different aspects of the plant, such as its appealing fragrance, tough wood, dark berries, and common use in herbalism. Elderberry has been used for centuries by people throughout the world for its health-boosting benefits, and it remains a popular natural remedy today.