Marge Elderberry

❇︎ ❇︎ ❇︎ ❇︎ Seedlings available to ship today! ❇︎ ❇︎ ❇︎ ❇︎

❇︎ ❇︎ Pre-Ordering is OPEN! ❇︎ ❇︎

❇︎ Cuttings begin shipping in Early Spring 2025.

Marge is the only American-European elderberry (Sambucus canadensis x Sambucus nigra). It has the flavor and appearance of the American elders & the large berry size and yield of the European elders. Although Marge is mostly self-pollinating; yields increase with a second varietal and will cross-pollinate both S. canadensis and S. nigra varieties, making it an important cross-pollinator for all elderberries types.

Marge is a vigorous grower, out-yielding all other elderberries. In a 3 year, multi-site trial, conducted by the U. of Missouri, confirmed Marge significantly outperformed all other S. nigra cultivars in their trial and produced more fruit with larger berries than the S. canadensis in the trial. It is the bush we have planted the most on the farm.  

These are seedlings and cuttings from our elderberry bushes where we harvest and sell the certified organic flowers and berries. We have been growing Marge elderberries for five years with excellent results. For us, bushes remain around 6 feet tall and wide. When planted closely together they will grow up to 10 feet tall. New canes grow from the base and do not put out wandering suckers.

USDA Zone: 3 - 9 hardiness, prefers cooler climates

Grow Height:  6 - 10', depending on spacing, and can be pruned shorter for easier harvesting

Sun: Full Sun, does well with some shade

Ripening Time: Late Summer

Pollination: Self-fertile, yields increase with a second variety; cross pollinates with all varieties.

Years to Fruit: 2 to 3 years (seedlings to canes); fruiting on 2nd year seedlings or 3rd year canes in zones 3 and 4.

Soil Type: Tolerates a wide variety, best in soils rich in organic matter & well-draining

Moisture Requirements: needs consistently moist soil, not wet, for two growing seasons. Do not allow soil to dry out in the first growing season. Very drought-tolerant once properly established. 

Best Time to Plant: Spring and Fall. Summer planting is possible but watering requirements are more demanding. Best time to plant in most climates is Fall, followed by early Spring.

Mulch: important for all seasons, mulch deeply immediately after planting to protect young roots and retain hydrated soils.