Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis in North America, Sambucus nigra in Europe) is a multi-stemmed shrub in the Adoxaceae family, cultivated for its clusters of small, dark purple berries. The berries are tart and slightly astringent when raw but develop a rich, earthy flavor when cooked. Elderberries are grown for their medicinal reputation, high antioxidant content, and use in syrups, jams, wines, and immune-supporting preparations. The plant is also valued for its showy flower clusters, which are used in cordials and fritters.
Elderberry has a long history of medicinal and culinary use in both Europe and North America. The shrub was known as the "medicine chest of the common people" in European folk tradition. Native American peoples used the berries and flowers for food and medicine, and the hollow stems were used for pipe stems and blowguns.
The plant gained scientific attention in the late 20th century for its immune-supporting properties. Commercial elderberry products, particularly the syrup marketed under the trade name Sambucol, became widely popular. The commercial elderberry industry has grown significantly in the United States, concentrated in Missouri, Oregon, and New York.
Elderberry is a fast-growing multi-stemmed shrub reaching 8 to 12 feet (2.5 to 3.5 meters) tall with a similar spread. The compound leaves are 6 to 10 inches (15 to 25 centimeters) long with 5 to 11 leaflets. The flowers are flat-topped clusters of small white blossoms up to 10 inches (25 centimeters) across, appearing in early summer. The berries are small, dark purple to black, and grow in large drooping clusters.
Elderberries are productive, with a mature shrub yielding 10 to 20 pounds (4.5 to 9 kilograms) of berries. The plants spread through suckering and form dense thickets if not managed. The roots, stems, leaves, and unripe berries contain cyanogenic glycosides and should not be consumed raw.
Elderberries are grown for syrup production, jams, jellies, and wine. The cooked berries make a complex, fruity preserve. The syrup is used as a home remedy for cold and flu symptoms. The flowers are used in elderflower cordial, a traditional European soft drink.
Elderberries are easy to grow and pest-resistant. The plants tolerate a wide range of soil conditions and are hardy in USDA zones 3 through 9. Pruning of old canes is required to maintain vigor, but the plants require minimal other care.