Sambucus nigra ELDERBERRY (20 seeds)

Elderberry, also known as Black Elder (Sambucus nigra), is a hardy, fast-growing deciduous shrub belonging to the Adoxaceae family. Native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia, it typically grows along forest edges and reaches a height of 3 to 4 meters.

Its flowering is characterized by small white flowers grouped in large, fragrant umbels. This occurs in early June, attracting bees and butterflies.

The fruits are small, round, dark berries. They are edible and have a sweet yet tart flavor.

Black Elder seeds are elongated, brownish-yellow, slightly rough, and measure about 4 millimeters in length.

The foliage consists of serrated, oval, dark green leaves arranged in opposite clusters on slender stems, adding a fresh touch to any garden.

- Uses:

Culinary and Gourmet Uses of Black Elderberry

Black Elderberry, grown from Ethnoplants seeds, is a treasure of wild gastronomy.
Its berries can be used to make refined syrups, jellies, and liqueur wines, while its edible flowers bring a unique floral note to sorbets, fritters, and herbal teas.
This versatility makes it an essential species for lovers of natural, authentic flavours.

Ecological Solution and Horticultural Tradition in the Garden

In natural gardening, Black Elderberry is a valuable ally for ecological balance.
Traditionally, a maceration of its leaves is used by gardeners as a plant tea to naturally repel rodents and limit the presence of aphids or certain fungal diseases like downy mildew.
It is an ideal ecological alternative to support your crops while respecting your garden's ecosystem.

- Germination and Sowing:

• The ideal period to sow elderberry is from November to February.
• Stratify the seeds naturally by sowing in autumn, or artificially by placing them in the refrigerator for 4 to 6 weeks.
• Sow them in a small tray of fine potting soil.
• Cover with only 1 to 2 millimeters of soil.
• Water gently with a hand sprayer.
• Place the tray in a greenhouse at a temperature between 20 and 25°C.
• Germination occurs within 2 to 3 weeks following stratification and sowing.

- Soil type / Substrate:

Black Elder grows in all types of soil. It is an undemanding plant that simply requires good drainage.

- Exposure / Light:

Sambucus nigra thrives very well in partial shade.

- Temperature / Hardiness:

This shrub is very hardy and easily withstands extreme negative temperatures. It is cultivated in USDA zones 2–10, surviving temperatures as low as -30°C.

- Watering / Irrigation:

The elderberry needs regular watering in summer if the soil becomes too dry. Using a good mulch is highly recommended for this type of plant.

- Multiplication:

Sowing seeds is the easiest method to reproduce it in quantity. It is also easy to propagate via cuttings.

- Pests / Diseases:

Common pests include aphids, scale insects, and thrips. Possible diseases include rust and occasionally mildew. Overall, it is a robust plant with few health issues.

This article was written by Julien on 07/15/2026.