Type
American elderberry, needs pollinizer
Elderberry variety
Adams Elderberry
A long-established Sambucus canadensis selection with large berry clusters and dependable productivity. Pair it with York or another American elderberry for pollination.
Season
late summer
Best for
syrups, jelly, wine
About Adams
Adams is an American elderberry with large, flat clusters of dark purple-black fruit and dependable productivity. It is an older, vigorous cultivar used chiefly for cooking, juice, and preserves rather than fresh eating.
Growing Adams Elderberry
Plant in Zones 3 to 9 in sun and moist soil, and provide another American elderberry cultivar for better cross-pollination. It usually ripens in mid to late summer; harvest whole cymes when the berries are fully dark and ripe, then remove the stems before processing.
Full growing guide
For planting, care, pollination, and harvest that apply to all elderberry, see the complete guide.
How to grow ElderberryOther elderberry varieties
Variety characteristics are general guidance for US home gardens; chill hours, hardiness, and pollination vary, so confirm suitability for your zone. Availability differs by supplier. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.