European Elderberry (Sambucus nigra): Origin, Characteristics Varieties & Cultivation

Sambucus nigra, commonly known as the European Elderberry or Black Elder, is one of the most well-known species within the Sambucus genus. Sambucus nigra is native to Europe, northern Africa, and western Asia. Its natural range extends from Scandinavia in the north, through Central and Southern Europe, to parts of the Mediterranean region, and eastward into parts of Asia Minor and the Caucasus.

Over time, Sambucus nigra has been brought into cultivation not just in its native regions but also in North America and other parts of the world where it’s valued for its medicinal, culinary, and ornamental uses. Its hardy in USDA zones 4-8. Evidence suggests that elderberries have been used by humans for thousands of years. Archaeological finds and ancient texts indicate that various parts of the elder plant were utilized by Neolithic people for both medicinal and culinary purposes.

Sambucus nigra can grow as a large shrub or small tree, reaching heights of 6 meters (20 feet) or more. It often forms a rounded, spreading shape with multiple stems. The bark is grayish-brown, often with deep furrows and a somewhat corky texture. It can be shredded or have a rough appearance. In some regions, Sambucus nigra can be quite invasive, spreading through seeds and suckers.

Leaves are opposite, compound, with 5-7 leaflets. Each leaflet is lanceolate to ovate, with serrated margins. They measure about 5-12 cm long. Leaf color is green, but some cultivars exhibit purplish or variegated foliage. The leaves are deciduous, turning yellow in the fall before dropping. Leaves contain toxic compounds like cyanogenic glycosides (e.g., sambunigrin), which release cyanide upon hydrolysis.

The plant produces large, flat clusters of small, white, or cream-colored flowers in late spring to early summer. These flowers have a distinct, sweet fragrance. Following the flowers, the plant develops clusters of small, dark purple to black berries in late summer to autumn. These berries are tart but can be quite sweet when fully ripe.

The flowers can be used to make elderflower syrup, cordial, wine, or even fried in batter as elderflower fritters. The berries are used to make jams, jellies, pies, wine, and elderberry syrup. Traditionally, Sambucus nigra has been used for its medicinal properties. The berries and flowers are rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin C, and antioxidants. It is often used in remedies for colds, flu, and respiratory infections. It’s believed to boost the immune system. It’s important to cook the berries before consuming to neutralize toxic compounds like sambunigrin, which can cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea when eaten raw.

Varieties and Cultivars

Ornamental Cultivars

  • ‘Black Beauty’ – Has dark purple-black foliage and striking pink flowers.
  • ‘Black Lace’ – Features finely cut, almost lace-like, dark purple foliage and pink flowers.
  • ‘Aureomarginata’ – Also known as ‘Variegata’, this cultivar has leaves with yellow margins.
  • ‘Eva’ – A newer cultivar with a compact habit, dark foliage, and bright pink flowers.
  • ‘Guincho Purple’ – Similar to ‘Black Beauty’ but with a more compact habit and deeper purple foliage.
  • ‘Pulverulenta’ – Sometimes called the Snowberry Elder, it has leaves that are speckled with white.

Culinary Varieties

  • ‘Haschberg’ – Highly valued for commercial fruit production due to its high yield and large berry clusters.
  • ‘Sampo’ – Another high-yielding cultivar, often used for its fruit in various products.
  • ‘Fructifaciens’ – Known for its heavy berry production, suitable for gardens where the fruit is the primary interest.
  • Laciniata’ – Also refered to as the Cut-leaved Elder, it has deeply dissected leaves giving it a fine texture. While more ornamental, it can still produce fruit.
  • ‘Marginata’ – Features leaves with a creamy white margin, making it visually appealing while still producing berries.

Cultivation

  • It prefers a sunny to partially shaded location and thrives in a variety of soil types, though it favors moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter.
  • Plant in early spring or fall when the plant is dormant. If you’re planting container-grown plants, this can be done throughout the growing season if conditions are suitable.
  • Elderberries can be planted near plants that attract beneficial insects or repel pests. For example, planting with herbs like rosemary or lavender can deter certain pests.
  • Plant elderberries 6 to 10 feet apart if growing for fruit, or closer if used primarily for ornamental purposes.

Care

  • Watering: Regular watering, especially in dry periods, is crucial. However, elderberries are somewhat drought-resistant once established.
  • Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect roots. Keep mulch a few inches away from the stem to prevent rot.
  • Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth begins. A layer of well-rotted compost or manure in spring can also benefit the plant.
  • Pruning: Prune annually in late winter to early spring while the plant is dormant. Remove dead or diseased wood, thin out older canes to encourage new, more productive growth, and cut back by about a third to maintain size and shape.
  • Elderberry plants can benefit from staking or support as they grow to prevent branches from bending under the weight of berries.

Propagation

  • Elderberries are commonly propagated by hardwood cuttings taken in late autumn or winter. Softwood cuttings can also be taken in late spring to summer.
  • While viable, growing from seed isn’t common due to variability in offspring and the need for stratification.

Harvesting

  • Flowers: Harvest elderflowers when they are fully open but before they begin to brown. This is typically in late spring to early summer.
  • Berries: Pick elderberries when they are fully ripe, typically in late summer to early autumn. The berries should be dark purple to black and soft to the touch.

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