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Green Alder vs Black Elderberry
Alnus alnobetula subsp. crispa
Sambucus canadensis
COMING SOON
(new stock expected: fall of 2025)
NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN
Green Alder is a cold hardy, native shrub. It is often planted on infertile sites so it can fix nitrogen from the air and improve the soil quality.
Green Alder is known for its smooth grey bark and attractive shiny green leaves; it is commonly used in reclamation.
Black Elderberry is a deciduous shrub native to eastern North America. You can plant this shrub in moist areas and it will help stabilize your soil. You can also use it on rural properties anywhere you'd use a lilac.
Black Elderberries are considered to be partially self-pollinating. So while they will still produce some berries without cross-pollination, planting with another variety will increase yields. Consider planting with Ranch Elderberry or Bob Gordon Elderberry.
Warning: the seeds, stems, leaves, roots, and uncooked berries of the Black Elderberry are poisonous to humans when eaten in quantity. You should cook the berries to make them safe for human consumption.
Green Alder Quick Facts
Black Elderberry Quick Facts
Toxicity: leaves, stems, and uncooked berries are poisonous to humans
In row spacing: 0.9 m (3 ft)