Some parts of the plant are poisonous, so only the berries should be
harvested. Adams pollinates best with the variety John and its fruits ripen about 2
weeks earlier than John. Flowers are white and large clusters form early in the
season. Elderberries typically are small trees, or more likely, large shrubs that are
completely deciduous (loose their leaves) in winter. Flowers are highly fragrant.
While elderberries can tolerate partial shade, full sun will produce more abundant
crops. Adams produces the best wine.
The Fruit
Fruit Quality Excellent
Fruit’s skin color when ripe Deep purple, almost black
Fruit Flavor Sweet, when considering other elderberry varieties
Fruit texture Very soft
Flesh color Deep purple, almost black
Fruit size Small
Production Very productive.
Additional information
Botanical name Sambucus nigra spp. canadensis ‘Adams’
Common names Adams Elderberry, Elderberry, American Black Elderberry
Family Moraceae (Mulberry family)
Ripening season Mid-late summer
Mature Height 6-8 feet
Mature Width 6-8 feet
Pollination requirements Somewhat self-pollinating but planting a second variety will increase fruit set and quantity produced. The best variety for ‘ Adams to pollinate with is ‘John.’
Chill Hour Minimum 550 minimum
Yield Yield is 20lbs, or more, in 4-5 years under full sun
