S. nigra is the official medicinal species used in Europe. The berries are extremely high in immune-boosting anthocyanins. You can use them in all of the same wonderful ways you would use the canadensis species. Leaves are broader and darker green than other elderberries and the plant gives off a musky scent when you brush past it.
Note that nigras produce on second-year wood—prune accordingly. Upright habit, extremely vigorous. Native to Europe. Z4/5. Maine Grown. (1–3' shrubs)
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