Based on 4,261 research-grade iNaturalist flowering observations in California, Blue Elder blooms mainly from April to June, peaking in May. It ranks #23 among wildflowers recorded in the state in our data.
Sambucus cerulea
Blue Elder in California by month
Bars show research-grade observations per month. They mix true seasonality with how often people are outdoors, so treat small numbers with caution.
Also in bloom in California in May
Ithuriel's Spear
White Globe Lily
Yellow Mariposa Lily
Butterfly Mariposa Lily
California poppy
Chaparral Yucca
Milk Thistle
Redstem Stork's-bill
Places to look in California
Botanical GardenThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
State ParkHearst Castle
Botanical GardenSan Francisco Botanical Garden
State ParkAnza-Borrego Desert State Park
National ForestAngeles National Forest
National ForestSequoia National Forest
FAQ
When does Blue Elder bloom in California?
Mainly April–June, with the most records in May.
How common is Blue Elder in California?
It ranks #23 by number of iNaturalist flowering observations among wildflowers in California (4,261 records in our sample).