Robert Chokecherry vs Bob Gordon Elderberry - TreeTime.ca

Robert Chokecherry vs Bob Gordon Elderberry

Sambucus canadensis Bob Gordon

Prunus virginiana Robert

COMING SOON

(new stock expected: fall of 2025)

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

Bob Gordon Elderberry
Robert Chokecherry

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.

Developed in Barrhead, Alberta, the Robert Chokecherry produces very large berries (comparable to the size of grapes) with good yield.

The berries can be used for wine, jams, jellies and fresh picking, making it one of the sweeter chokecherries. Rich, red foliage make it a striking landscape addition.

Bob Gordon Elderberry Quick Facts

Robert Chokecherry Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 2b
Height: 2.1 m (7 ft)
Height: 3 m (10 ft)
Spread: 2.1 m (7 ft)
Spread: 2.1 m (7 ft)
Light: full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: dry, normal
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: fast
Life span: short
Life span: medium
Suckering: high
Suckering: medium
Maintenance: medium

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

Toxicity: Toxic to animals with segmented stomachs (horses, cattle, deer moose, etc.)
Foliage: red leaves
Flowers: fragrant, white
Fruit: large, black, grape sized
Berries: black
Harvest: late summer to early fall
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


Other Names: bob gordon american elderberry, bob gordon black elderberry