Samdal European Elderberry

The Samdal elderberry (Sambucus nigra 'Samdal') is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Adoxaceae family. This plant is a cultivated variety of the European elderberry, which is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. The Samdal elderberry is primarily grown for its ornamental value, but it also produces edible fruits that are used for making wine, jams, and syrups.

The Samdal elderberry typically grows up to 8 feet (2.4 meters) tall and wide, with an upright habit and an open branching structure. Its leaves are dark green, opposite, and pinnately compound, with 5-9 leaflets that are oval to elliptic in shape and serrated at the edges. In the fall, the foliage turns yellow before dropping.

In early summer, the Samdal elderberry produces large clusters of fragrant, creamy-white flowers that are arranged in flat-topped corymbs. The flowers are followed by clusters of dark purple to black, berry-like fruits that are 1/4 to 1/2 inch (6-12 mm) in diameter. The fruits are juicy and sweet, with a slightly tart flavor.

The Samdal elderberry prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It is relatively tolerant of drought and heat, but it does not do well in overly wet or waterlogged soils. This plant is also relatively easy to grow and maintain, and it is not usually bothered by serious pest or disease problems.

Latin Name: Sambucus nigra

Site and Soil: Sandal European Elderberry plants prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. They can tolerate a range of soil types but do best in loamy soil.

Pollination Requirements: Samdal European Elderberry plants are self-fertile but will produce a larger yield if cross-pollinated with another cultivar.

Hardiness: Samdal European Elderberry plants are hardy to USDA Zone 4, withstanding temperatures as low as -30°F.

Bearing Age: Samdal European Elderberry plants typically begin bearing fruit in their second year of growth.

Size at Maturity: Samdal European Elderberry plants can reach heights of 8-10 feet and widths of 6-8 feet if left unpruned. They can be kept smaller with regular pruning.

Bloom Time: Samdal European Elderberry plants bloom in early summer, usually in June.

Ripening Time: The fruit of Samdal European Elderberry plants ripen in late summer, typically in August.

Yield: Samdal European Elderberry plants can produce up to 20-30 lbs of fruit per plant under ideal conditions.

Pests & Diseases: Samdal European Elderberry plants can be affected by a number of pests and diseases, including aphids, mites, powdery mildew, and verticillium wilt. Regular inspection and treatment as necessary can help keep plants healthy.