Elder is a perennial shrub or small tree. The plant genus, Sambucus is part of the Adoxaceae (commonly referred to as (moschatel) plant family. Species of elders are found throughout the world. Mexican Elderberry – Sambucus nigra ssp. Caerulea – is native to the West Coast of the United States, ranging from Oregon to Texas.
Second (and occasionally first year) shrubs produce clusters of fragrant, cream white flowers that give way to productive, dark blue berries that have a complex, tart sour flavor that are made more palatable by adding a little honey. Berries or flowers can be used fresh or dry, most typically as a tea. However, avoid excessive consumption of raw berries – plant branches, leaves, and seeds have a cyanide-inducing glycoside. Cooking the elderberries destroys the glycoside in the seed.
Elderberry shrubs typically reach to 7-10 feet tall and will progressively produce more flowers and berries every year. They are tolerant of drought / low water and soil fertility conditions, but I've found the flavor of the berries are improved by a more standard garden care regime (small amendments of fertilizer and regular waterings).