Blue elderberry fruits were cooked or dried before eating and provided a rich source of Vitamin C. A decoction from the leaves was used as a purgative and to cure colds. Tea made from blossoms was used to reduce fevers. Flutes and whistles were also made from elderberry branches (Strike, p. 140-141).

Information on growing Blue Elderberry can be found here on Calscape. 

Blue Elderberry is an important food source for many birds and also supports bees, butterflies, and other insects.