I'm pretty sure that what you've got is an elderberry (Sambucus nigra), with some blooms faded and the berries coming on.

Here is a link that might be useful: USDA Plants -- Sambucus nigra ssp. canadensis

Yup, I agree with Neil, although I don't know nigra (have only canadensis myself). That's a nice looking plant.

USDA seems to say that the common elderberry of both North America and Europe is S. nigra, with American (ssp. canadensis) and European (ssp. nigra) subspecies. I've shown the fruits of "our" elderberry to Europeans, and they've instantly recognized them. Some nurseries -- Forest Farm, for example -- list two separate species.

Ah! Sambucus it is! You guys rock...I knew _somebody_ had to be familiar with this plant.

My next question is, how would you propagate this plant? I'd like to start some.

Thanks...!

Rusty

I think you could try cuttings - take pencil diameter or larger branches, cut pieces about 8 or 10 inches long, remove leaves from lower part of cutting, allow a few leaves on the upper end to remain, push half of cutting into damp potting soil or sand, keep moist and shady for a month or two. A percentage will root, so start with more cuttings than you want shrubs. I have never tried this with Elderberry.

Another option is to look for a shoot near the base of the shrub for a small piece that can be divided from the main plant with a few roots. A large shrub like the one in your photo should have a few side shoots, I think. Dig the shoot with a little soil and some roots and transplant to create a new shrub. I have to admit I have never tried to divide elderberry so I am not sure if they grow divideable shoots. They tend to volunteer in my garden so I always have some if I want them. Good Luck.

Thanks for the input. (I also checked the AHS book and it said softwood in summer, hardwood cuttings in winter). I stuck some larger cuttings, and also some smaller ones, and will report back if these succeed.