Black, red and blue elderberry seeds
Red elderberry is the hardiest of these three. American black elderberry is the more familiar choice for preserves, while blue elderberry needs a milder climate.
100+ seeds · $8.95 CAD
View seeds →100+ seeds · $8.95 CAD
View seeds →50+ seeds · $7.95 CAD
View seeds →Growing details
| Detail | American Black Elderberry | Red Elderberry | Blue Elderberry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cold hardiness zone | 3/4 | 2 | 5 |
| Ripe fruit colour | Dark purple to black | Red | Blue black |
| Species | Sambucus canadensis | Sambucus racemosa | Sambucus caerulea |
| Light | Sun to partial shade | Sun to partial shade | Best in a sunny, open position |
| Moisture | Moist soil, with occasional wetness tolerated | Moist, nutrient rich ground | Moist soil with good drainage |
A closer look
American Black Elderberry
American black elderberry is grown for cooked preserves, syrups and pie filling. Its zone 3/4 rating makes site choice important in colder gardens.
Red Elderberry
Red elderberry is useful for wildlife and ornamental planting. Its fruit is generally not used in the kitchen and is not a substitute for black elderberries in a preserves planting.
Blue Elderberry
Blue elderberry comes from western North America. Our seed came from British Columbia, and the listing's zone 5 rating makes it a choice for milder gardens.