Elderberry 'Marge' (Sambucus canadensis)

Elderberries are a powerful addition to food forests and integrated perennial plantings. They support pollinators with their prolific summer blooms and provide food for birds and other wildlife. Their rapid growth and coppicing potential make them an excellent source of biomass for mulch or compost, contributing to soil health. As a dual-purpose plant offering both ornamental and practical benefits, elderberries enrich biodiversity and provide high-value products for human use, making them a must-have for sustainable systems.

The coppice king! Elderberries grow rapidly, producing dense, bushy shrubs with pinnate green leaves. In late spring to early summer, they bloom with large, fragrant flower heads that attract bees and other pollinators. By late summer, these flowers develop into clusters of small, dark purple to black berries. Elderberries respond well to coppicing, which can rejuvenate older plants and provide a sustainable source of biomass. They thrive in moist, nutrient-rich soils but are remarkably adaptable, growing in a variety of conditions, including wet or marginal areas.

Size at Maturity- Shrub/Midstory Layer. Grows to 8-20 feet tall and 6-10 feet wide, with rapid annual growth

Current Size- Rooted cuttings. Cut back to fit into package. Up to 18" tall with robust roots.

Elderberries have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and as a food source. Their berries are rich in antioxidants and are a staple for making syrups, jams, wines, and immune-boosting remedies. The flowers are also edible and can be used to make elderflower cordial or tea. Beyond their culinary and medicinal uses, elderberry stems, which have a soft pith, are traditionally used for crafting small instruments or taps for syrup collection. These shrubs attract birds and pollinators, making them an essential element for enhancing garden biodiversity. Coppicing elderberries for biomass is another sustainable practice, providing material for mulch or compost while encouraging vigorous new growth.