Family:  Honeysuckle (Caprifoliaceae)

Hardy to Zones 4 to 8

(Black Elder, Elder Berry, European Black Elderberry) Perennial, deciduous, multistemmed shrub to small tree native to Europe.  Wild form.  The berries are large and tasty–best choice for herbal use.  European black elderberries are self-fertile.  Even so, growing three of them instead of just one is going to result in better genetic stability and an increase in fruit production.  They do not need a “pollinator” of a different type, that is a requirement that has come along with excessive selection of elderberry cultigens and does not apply to these open-pollinated wild form elderberries. Traditional usage (TWM): Colds, flu, immune enhancement.  Source of anthocyanins, bioflavonoids, vitamins and antioxidants. The syrup, tincture or glycerite of these berries is excellent for treating the common cold and for overall increase in immunity.  Elderberries prefer rich, moist soil in the part shade to sun.  They are best placed as an understory to a higher tree canopy. Cage to protect from deer during first few years of growth.  Elderberries appreciate frequent watering and spring application of nitrogen-rich compost or composted manure, applied within the dripline.  Space trees 15 feet apart.
Potted shrub from cutting, 9-inch pot, certified organically grown