European Black Elderberry
Sambucus nigra
Also listed as Sambucus alba, Sambucus arborescens
Also known as Elderberry, Black Elderberry, European Black Elder
Climate Match for your location
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A vigorous deciduous shrub producing creamy-white flower clusters in late spring followed by dark purple-black berries in late summer, valued for culinary and medicinal uses. Attracts birds and wildlife while offering ornamental interest throughout the growing season.
Why grow it
European black elderberry produces larger fruit yields and more consistent berry size than most native North American elderberry species, making it practical for both fresh harvest and processing. The plant establishes quickly and tolerates a wider range of soil conditions than some cultivars, though it does require cross-pollination with a compatible variety for optimal fruiting. Its dual appeal as an ornamental and productive food source makes it useful in polyculture settings where space is limited.
Watch out for
Plants can sucker vigorously from the root system once established, potentially spreading beyond intended boundaries without regular management. The berry flavor and medicinal potency vary noticeably between individual plants and seasons, so tasting or processing berries before committing to large harvests is advisable. Pruning and training during the first few years helps direct growth and improves long-term productivity.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Viburnaceae
Native Range
Europe, Western Asia, North Africa
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
A vigorous deciduous shrub producing creamy-white flower clusters in late spring followed by dark purple-black berries in late summer, valued for culinary and medicinal uses. Attracts birds and wildlife while offering ornamental interest throughout the growing season.
Climate Match for your location
See how well European Black Elderberry grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
European black elderberry produces larger fruit yields and more consistent berry size than most native North American elderberry species, making it practical for both fresh harvest and processing. The plant establishes quickly and tolerates a wider range of soil conditions than some cultivars, though it does require cross-pollination with a compatible variety for optimal fruiting. Its dual appeal as an ornamental and productive food source makes it useful in polyculture settings where space is limited.
Watch out for
Plants can sucker vigorously from the root system once established, potentially spreading beyond intended boundaries without regular management. The berry flavor and medicinal potency vary noticeably between individual plants and seasons, so tasting or processing berries before committing to large harvests is advisable. Pruning and training during the first few years helps direct growth and improves long-term productivity.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Viburnaceae
Native Range
Europe, Western Asia, North Africa
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
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