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Aurora Haskap (Honeyberry) vs Black Elderberry
Lonicera caerulea Aurora
Sambucus canadensis
Aurora Haskap is considered one of the top Haskap varieties, known for its excellent flavour and lower acidity, resulting in a sweeter taste. The flavour of Haskaps is generally described as a cross between a blueberry and a raspberry. Aurora Haskaps are well suited to fresh eating, freezing, baking, and preserves.
It produces high yields of large berries and the upright growth habit makes it suitable for mechanical harvesting. The berries are easily seen on the bush, making them easy to pick.
For optimal fruit production, cross-pollination is required. Haskaps need to be planted with a compatible variety. Compatibility is influenced by both bloom time and genetics.
Aurora Haskap is an early-pollinating variety and pairs well with Borealis, Tundra, Honey Bee, and Indigo Gem.
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.
Aurora Haskap (Honeyberry) Quick Facts
Black Elderberry Quick Facts
Toxicity: leaves, stems, and uncooked berries are poisonous to humans