Elderberry

Elderberry, scientifically known as Sambucus nigra, is a deciduous shrub native to Europe and North America. Renowned for its clusters of small, dark purple to black berries, elderberry is not only valued for its ornamental appeal but also for its culinary and medicinal uses. This variety has green leaves and white flowers starting in April and blooming through August. Its purple berries appear in late August and the last harvest is usually early October. Flowers are good for elderflower wine or tinctures. Its bluish-black berries are excellent in jelly, syrups, and tinctures as a cold remedy. Birds also love them! Amenable to artistic pruning or annual shearing to keep in scale, best done after bloom so not to lose next year’s flowers. Water moderately to regularly.