These plants ship November through May from Pense Berry Farms in Mountainburg, Arkansas. Orders placed between May 21 and October 31 ship in November and December. Online orders of products from Pense Berry Farms require a $150.00 minimum. For smaller orders, please contact us.
12-18 inch bare root plant.
John's Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis 'Johns')
Key Characteristics
Origin: 'Johns' is a cultivar of the American Elderberry (*Sambucus canadensis*) that originated at the **Nova Scotia Experiment Station** in Canada in 1954. It was selected for its large fruit clusters and reliable production.
Patent Status: As a cultivar introduced in 1954, any potential patent would have long since expired.
Berry Production: 'Johns' Elderberry is known for producing very large clusters of medium-sized, purplish-black berries. It is considered a high-yielding variety, with clusters often exceeding 5 inches in diameter. The berries are suitable for making jams, jellies, juice, and wine.
Ripening Time: 'Johns' is an **early to mid-season** ripening elderberry, typically maturing its fruit in **mid to late summer**, usually around August. It tends to ripen slightly before the 'Adams' variety.
Plant Size and Appearance: 'Johns' is a vigorous, multi-stemmed shrub that can reach a mature height and spread of 8-10 feet. It has attractive green foliage and the characteristic white flower heads of American Elderberry. The fall foliage can turn to red-orange, providing multi-seasonal interest.
Flowers: Produces large, flat-topped clusters of fragrant, white flowers in late spring to early summer (June-July). These flowers are attractive to pollinators and can also be used for making elderflower fritters or tea. Cross-pollination is required for optimal fruit set.
Hardiness: Generally hardy in USDA Zones **3 through 9**, demonstrating excellent adaptability to a wide range of climates.
Pollination: 'Johns' Elderberry is **not self-pollinating** and requires another compatible *Sambucus canadensis* cultivar for cross-pollination to ensure good fruit set and yields. Recommended pollinators include 'Adams', 'Nova', 'York', or even wild American Elderberry. Planting at least two different varieties within 50-60 feet is recommended.
Growing Conditions:
Sunlight: Thrives in full sun for best flowering and fruit production, but can tolerate some partial shade.
Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It is adaptable to various soil types and can even tolerate wet locations.
Watering: Requires regular watering, especially during establishment and fruit development. Ensure consistent moisture, particularly in dry periods.
Fertilizing: Benefits from light fertilization in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or weak branches. Older canes can be cut back to the ground to encourage vigorous new growth, as elderberries fruit best on younger wood.
Uses: The berries are excellent for:
Making juice, syrups, jams, and jellies.
Elderberry wine production.
Baking in pies and other desserts.
The flowers can be used to make fritters and tea.
Wildlife Value: The flowers attract pollinators, and the berries are a valuable food source for birds and other wildlife. The shrub also provides good cover.
Ornamental Value: 'Johns' offers visual appeal with its large white flower clusters in early summer, followed by abundant dark berries in late summer, and attractive fall foliage.
Disease and Pest Resistance: American Elderberries, including 'Johns', are generally quite resistant to most common diseases and pests. Occasional issues like leaf spot or aphids may occur but are usually not severe.
