Sambucus canadensis is a shrub with opposite, pinnately-compound leaves. The small, white, 5 petaled flowers are aggregated into conspicuous large, flat-topped or rounded inflorescences. Flowering begins in early June in northeastern Wisconsin. The fruit is a small, juicy dark purple to black berry that ripens in late summer.

The habitat for Sambucus canadensis is often in moist to wet soil and full sun or light shade. It is found throughout Wisconsin and is commonly planted as a landscaping plant.