Elderberry
Elderberry
The American elderberry (Sambucus nigra subsp. canadensis) is a large shrub or small tree native to Kentucky, Tennessee, and West Virginia. Wild stands are found growing from Florida to Quebec and west to the Rocky Mountains. It is closely related to the European elderberry (Sambucus nigra), which exhibits very similar morphological characteristics. Elderberries produce attractive white flowers in cymes followed by large clusters of small fruit. While elderberries are not normally eaten fresh due to their tartness and reported toxic effects, wild and cultivated elderberries can be processed, either alone or with other fruit. Significant elderberry research has been conducted by the Center for Agroforestry at the University of Missouri.
Key Requirements
| Land | Low |
| Labor | High |
| Capital | Medium to High |
Take the HortBizQuiz to see how much Land, Labor, and Capital you have for your operation.
Markets
- Direct to Consumer
- Farmer's Market
- On-Farm Stands
- U-Pick
- Value-Added
Pests & Disease
Spotted wing drosophila (SWD) is possibly the most serious of pest of elderberry fruit. Fine mesh netting is effective in protecting elderberries from SWD and may help control of Japanese beetles. Birds can also cause a serious problem with elderberry production.
Costs and returns are presented as estimates. They will vary based on your farm and markets.
Costs and returns are presented as estimates. They will vary based on your farm and markets.
Challenges
- Elderberries have a shallow, fibrous root system, making them relatively drought intolerant.
- Few pesticides are labeled for use on this crop, so growers will need to rely on good cultural practices.
Opportunities
Supply of locally produced elderberries being limited, elderberry producers are often able to capture a premium price and have product sold in advance of harvest.