Is it best to plant red or blue elderberries?

[ivie]

Locally, our nursery only carries red elderberry plants. Is blue better? What should I plant?

[IdahoHerbalist]

Do not plant the red elderberries for medicinal purposes.

[Dr. Patrick JonesHomestead Instructor]

It depends what you mean by “Red”.

If you mean the Black Elder Sambuccus nigra which has dark magenta/red leaves. That’s a great one.

If you mean the Red Elder Sambuccus racemosa (which makes red berries). No, don’t use it. The berries are fairly toxic.

Doc

Don't use herbs or combine herbs with medications or use them during lactation or pregnancy without talking with your healthcare provider.

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