A Native North American Crop
The American elderberry (Sambucus canadensis, also classified as Sambucus nigra subsp. canadensis) is a perennial shrub native to much of eastern and central North America. Long valued for its berries and flowers, it has become an increasingly important specialty crop for farmers seeking opportunities in diversified agriculture.
American elderberries thrive in a range of growing conditions and are particularly well suited to many parts of the Midwest. Their clusters of small, dark-purple berries are harvested in late summer and used in a growing variety of food, beverage, and botanical products.
Unlike imported European elderberries, American elderberries can be grown and processed domestically, creating opportunities for regional agricultural production and supply chains.
From Traditional Uses to Modern Markets
Elderberries have a long history of use in North America, including traditional food and botanical preparations among Indigenous communities and early settlers.
Today, American elderberries are used in syrups, juices, jams, jellies, beverages, and other value-added products. Their distinctive flavor and deep purple color also make them attractive ingredients for commercial food and beverage manufacturers.
Elderberries contain naturally occurring anthocyanins and other polyphenolic compounds responsible for much of their pigmentation. These characteristics have contributed to growing interest in elderberries as ingredients in a variety of consumer products.
As demand for elderberry ingredients has expanded, domestic growers have an opportunity to supply American-grown alternatives to imported products.
Growing American Elderberries
American elderberries are woody perennial shrubs that produce clusters of white flowers in early summer, followed by dark-purple berries later in the growing season.
Once established, elderberry plantings can remain productive for many years. The crop can be incorporated into diversified farming operations and, depending on site conditions and management practices, may offer opportunities to support pollinators, improve agricultural biodiversity, and maintain perennial vegetation on the landscape.
Commercial elderberry production requires careful attention to cultivar selection, soil and water conditions, pruning, pest management, harvesting, and postharvest handling.
Research and grower experience have helped identify cultivars and production practices suited to commercial cultivation, particularly in the central United States.
Building a Domestic Elderberry Industry
Although elderberries have grown naturally across North America for centuries, their development as a commercial specialty crop is relatively recent.
Much of the elderberry supply used in American consumer products has historically come from imported European elderberries. Domestic production offers an opportunity to develop a more regionally connected supply chain while creating new markets for American farmers.
Midwest Elderberry Cooperative works with independent growers to help bring American-grown elderberries and elderberry ingredients to commercial buyers and consumers.
By connecting agricultural production with processing and market opportunities, MEC supports the continued development of a domestic elderberry industry.
Discover American-Grown Elderberries
From frozen berries and juice to dehydrated and freeze-dried ingredients, American elderberries offer a range of possibilities for food and beverage applications.
Explore the elderberry products available through Midwest Elderberry Cooperative and discover how American-grown ingredients can support your next project.