Seeds
All seeds are grown on our farm without the use of chemicals; and are untreated, open-pollinated, hybrid-free and GMO-free.
Blue Elderberry Seeds
Blue Elderberry Seeds
Our own sustainably wild-harvested Blue Elderberry (Sambucus nigra ssp cerulea) seeds for organic growing.
All seeds are grown on our farm without the use of chemicals; and are open-pollinated, hybrid-free and GMO-free.
1 pkg (approx 30-50 seeds)
Common Names
Blue Elder, Blue Elderberry, Mexican Elderberry, Tapiro
Botanical Name
Sambucus nigra spp cerulea (Synonym S. mexicana)
Plant Family
Caprifoliaceae (Honeysuckle Family)
Life Cycle
Perennial
Native Range
PNW from BC down to Baja California. Parts of Texas and Mexico.
Hardiness Zone
5-10
Habit
Tall multi-stemmed shrub or small tree.
Sun/Soil
Moist soil, partial to full sun.
Germination/Sowing
The seeds germinate most easily when direct sown, or sown in flats outdoors, in the fall.
Growing/Care
Elder trees often require gentle pruning every two or three years after maturity to remove dead branches and prevent crowding. The trees love moisture but are tolerant of some drought.
Harvesting
Elder flowers can be collected as they open during the month of May. The berries are ripe in late July. The berries dry well and keep for several years.
Culinary Uses
Jams, jellies, cordials, wines, and other preserves are made out of both the berries and the flowers.
Medicinal Uses
Elder berries are prized for their antiviral properties and valuable for the prevention and treatment of viral infections such as cold and flu. The berries are exceptionally high in antioxidants. Elderflowers are also antiviral, as well as diaphoretic.
An oil infusion can be made from the flowers, bark or leaves to help heal cuts, scrapes and burns.
Themes
Attracts Pollinators, Deer Resistant, Apothecary Garden, Low Maintenance.