Russian Almond vs Bob Gordon Elderberry - TreeTime.ca

Russian Almond vs Bob Gordon Elderberry

Sambucus canadensis Bob Gordon

Prunus tenella

Bob Gordon Elderberry
Russian Almond

Bob Gordon Elderberry is a Black Elderberry cultivar that produces berries that are larger and sweeter than other varieties, making it one of the top cultivars. It produces large clusters of white flowers that turn into large clusters of dark purple to black berries. The berries are well-suited for baked goods, jams, jellies, and syrups. It was selected from the wild in Missouri.

The large berry clusters that the Bob Gordon Elderberry produces will often end up hanging downward. This makes it more difficult for birds to feed on the berries. If birds are a concern, this might be the right berry for you.

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 Black Elderberry or Ranch Elderberry.

Warning: the seeds, stems, leaves, roots, and uncooked berries are toxic to humans when eaten in quantity. Berries should be cooked to make them safe for human consumption.

Russian Almond is a low maintenance, short, slightly suckering shrub. It is covered with attractive, bright pink flowers in early spring before its foliage emerges.

This hardy species forms dense thickets attracts wildlife. Russian Almond prefers full sun and well-drained soils, but can tolerate moist soils.

The nuts it produces are quite attractive but very small. They are bitter and possibly toxic in large quantities.

Check out our YouTube channel video of the Russian Almond here.

Bob Gordon Elderberry Quick Facts

Russian Almond Quick Facts

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Zone: 3a
Zone: 2a
Height: 2.1 m (7 ft)
Height: 1.5 m (5 ft)
Spread: 2.1 m (7 ft)
Spread: 1.2 m (4 ft)
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: dry, normal
Light: full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no
Berries: black
Harvest: late summer to early fall
Flowers: fragrant, white
Flowers: bright pink
Nuts: small fuzzy nuts
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: medium
Life span: short
Life span: short
Suckering: high
Suckering: medium



Toxicity: leaves, stems, and uncooked berries are poisonous to humans

Other Names: bob gordon american elderberry, bob gordon black elderberry
Other Names: dwarf russian almond