I would be interested in one or two Mexican Elder(berries) - Sambucus mexicana. Does someone have plants, cuttings or even good rootstock to share? Thanks in advance, Mick http://www.elderberries.com/tag/sambucus-mexicana/

Posting a photo or two might help. I am, without seeing the tree in question, resting with you in the mires of a quandry - to cut or not..., that is the quest... (NOOOO I WON'T do that...)

I have the Anacacho orchid tree (Bauhinia lunarioides) that I bought last year, believe at the Desert Botanical Garden spring plant sale. I initially planted it in a 12" wide, 18" deep ceramic pot where it has thrived to the point it's tall enough that I think it needs to be in the soil. I am in the process of transplanting it to a nearby area where it will receive morning sun and afternoon/evening shade... The DBG's spring plant sale is going on thru tomorrow (Sunday 3/17). You might call them to see if they have any. I believe there are several of these trees planted in the xeriscaped area around the Glendale Main Library. There is a volunteer group of gardeners that maintain that area and they might know of somewhere in the Valley where you can find them

As I understand it, this behavior is not uncommon for mexican elder trees. I have been told that this is especially common for young trees and less so for more established ones. They drop their leaves under stress during the summer heat. They could be considered 'summer deciduous'.