A heavy-yielding nigra with extreme vigor, hardiness and pest resistance. Upright and non-suckering. Named after Marge Millican of Wyldewood Cellars Winery, Mulvane, Kan., also responsible for giving us the cultivar Wyldewood.
Note that nigras produce on second-year wood—prune accordingly. Upright habit, extremely vigorous. Native to Europe. Z4. Maine Grown. (1–3' shrubs)
This species is native to Europe. The medicinal 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. More tender than canadensis, but ours in Zone 4 seem to be almost as hardy. Note that nigras produce on second-year wood—prune accordingly.
Considered self-fertile but multiple plants will improve fruit set—it’s okay to mix species.
Plant 4–6' apart. Best in rich soil but adaptable to a variety of soil types. In spring, while plant is still dormant, prune away any weak, broken or dead canes.
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