Resources for Elderberry Growers

At River Hills Harvest, we are committed to educating farmers...

Missouri is currently the top producing state of American elderberry, Sambucus canadensis. We want to expand the market for American elderberries and continue to grow more successful farms and healthier communities.

We host workshops and give presentations throughout the country ranging in subjects from elderberry growing, processing for food and product development.
We have a number of articles and links below that contain information for commercial and home growers.
We regularly attend, speak and give demonstrations at conferences across the country, such as Mother Earth News Fairs, Ozarks Homesteading Expos, MOSES (now Marbleseed) and more.

We aren't just there for commercial growers; we are also there to guide you on how to grow this medicine for your own family in your backyard.

Planting Instructions

For thorough instructions on the planting, care, and keeping of elderberry plants check out our Planting Instructions document

Download

American Elderberry Sambucus Canadensis A River Hills Harvest Pocket Guide to Planting (In

The selections we grow here at River Hills Harvest have all at one point been selected from the wild here in the USA. Through growing these particular selections we have found them to have characteristics that we desire, such as ripening times, disease resistance, and more. Learn about the American elderberry selections we grow and how we sell them:

Bob Gordon

- Determinate
- Grows 6-8' Tall
- High Brix
- Recumbent Berry Heads

Adams

- Indeterminate
- Grows 8-10' Tall
- Originated in New York

Ranch

- Determinate
- Grows 5-6' Tall
- Hardiest Selection

Pocahontas

- Indeterminate
- Grows 12-14' Tall
- Very Large Flower & Berry Heads

Wyldewood

- Indeterminate
- Grows 6-10' Tall

Another notable selection is Pocahontas, which is quickly gaining popularity. This selection is known to have the largest flower and berry heads, sometimes measuring up to 2 feet. In comparison to the other selections we grow, this is the largest plant and grows taller than 12 feet. It is fast to spread however it may need a longer warm growing season to fully be able to fruit.

As well, we have started growing Nova and York selections.

SHOP