European Black

Sambucus nigra

This hardy perennial deciduous shrub grows to 6 metres and is valued for its heavy clusters of aromatic flowers and black fruit high in healthful antioxidants. Blossoms are used to make edlerflower cordial and flavour desserts, and the ripe fruit can be enjoyed fresh, as jam, jelly or syrup. Excellent hedgerow species and beneficial to pollinators and birds!

Certified Organic

A note about germination rates for Native Seeds

Our native seeds are not germination tested, as both germination rates and time to germination can vary significantly compared to commercial seed varieties. Many native seeds require specific pre-treatments—such as cold stratification, exposure to light, or temperature fluctuations—to successfully germinate.

Additionally, many native perennial plants may take several years to mature and begin flowering. 

For best results, please refer to our Growing Tips for strategies to support successful germination.

Tips for planting out native seeds:

1. Sow your seed in the Fall, as Nature would. If you don’t want to be patient, then putting your seeds in some damp soil in the fridge for 4-6 weeks can also help germination as they benefit from a cold period.
   
2. While there are technical tips that can be followed for each native species, we find generally good success by sowing seeds in a pot of sterilized potting soil in early Fall, and sinking the pot or tray into the ground in your garden where it can stay for 1-3 years.
   
3. Cover your seeding tray/pot with a fine wire mesh to keep out mice, squirrels, rabbits, cats and other critters who may want to nibble seedlings or dig up the nice potting soil.
   
4. When seedlings emerge in the Spring, prick them gently out with a fork once they have two sets of leaves (this indicates good root development so they survive transplanting better), then transplant them to their final location and water in well.
   
5. Leave the pot in place, and over the next couple of years it’s easy to continue pricking out new seedlings to transplant as they emerge.