This page provides guidance for identifying, maintaining, and protecting elderberry shrubs at UC Davis. These shrubs provide important habitat for the federally threatened valley elderberry longhorn beetle (VELB), which depends on elderberry for its survival. Elderberry grow in many locations across campus, including open fields, along fences, and among trees and other vegetation. Staff may encounter these shrubs during routine vegetation management, maintenance activities, and construction projects. Understanding how to work around them helps protect this species while supporting campus operations.
The guidance below summarizes key requirements and explains when coordination with Campus & Environmental Planning is required. If you are unsure whether a shrub is elderberry or whether your planned work is allowed, contact Campus & Environmental Planning before proceeding.
For easy reference in the field, download and print the elderberry maintenance guide to keep in a work vehicle or on a clipboard. Questions about a particular shrub, work site, or maintenance activity? Contact Campus & Environmental Planning for guidance (contact info located below). We also welcome feedback on this resource.
Why does elderberry matter?
- The valley elderberry longhorn beetle (VELB) is a federally threatened species protected under the Endangered Species Act. Elderberry (Sambucus spp.) is the beetle’s only known larval host plant. Because VELB develops inside elderberry stems, damage or removal of established elderberry shrubs can affect the species.
What should maintenance staff do?
- Identify
If you encounter an elderberry shrub, check the diameter of the stems at the base.- Stems less than 1 inch: Small plants may be removed as part of routine maintenance. Remove the plant completely, including the root, when feasible.
- Stems 1 inch or greater: Do not cut, remove, or damage the shrub. Notify your Supervisor, who should contact Environmental Planning before work proceeds.
Maintaining established elderberry
When trimming is necessary, trim between November and February and avoid removing stems 1 inch or greater in diameter. Within the shrub’s drip line, avoid damaging the plant and do not apply herbicides. Avoid applying insecticides within 30 meters (98 feet) of elderberry.For construction or ground-disturbing activities near elderberry, contact Environmental Planning before work begins. Whenever possible, projects should avoid elderberry and protect shrubs from construction impacts.
What if removal is necessary?
Do not remove an established elderberry shrub without prior coordination.
USFWS recommends avoiding elderberry whenever possible. When avoidance is not feasible, transplanting may be appropriate depending on project circumstances and applicable requirements. Additional environmental review, consultation, or mitigation may be required. Contact Environmental Planning to coordinate on potential elderberry removal.WHEN IN DOUBT, STOP AND ASK BEFORE YOU CUT.
Elderberry Bush Maintenance Guide
Learn how to care for elderberry bushes with our downloadable guide. Save the PDF for easy reference or share it with others interested in approved elderberry maintenance.
Contact Us
For elderberry identification, maintenance guidance, or project coordination:
Heather Davis
Director of Campus Planning
[email protected]
(530) 759-3766
Alex Tremblay
Environmental Planner
[email protected]
(530) 312-6902
Emily Hyland
Environmental Planner
[email protected]
(530) 759-3928