berry · Viburnaceae

Elderberry

Sambucus nigra

Energy
73kcal
Native
Top Producer
Elderberry - American elderberry

Photo: Rison Thumboor · CC BY-SA 4.0

Origin & History

Where it comes from

Sambucus is a genus of between 20 and 30 species of flowering plants in the family Adoxaceae. The various species are commonly referred to as elder, with the flowers as elderflower, and the fruit as elderberry.

Notable facts

Things worth knowing

  1. 01

    Elderberries come from plants in the Sambucus genus, which includes many different species commonly known as elder.

  2. 02

    The flowers of these plants are called elderflower, while the fruit is specifically referred to as elderberry.

  3. 03

    Elderberry is classified botanically as a berry, a type of fleshy fruit produced from a single flower.

  4. 04

    Each 100 grams of elderberries provides a notable 73 kilocalories of energy.

  5. 05

    A 100-gram serving of elderberries contains a substantial 7.00 grams of dietary fiber.

Properties

Health & nutrition

  • Elderberries are a good source of Vitamin C, which may support immune function.
  • The fiber content in elderberries may aid in digestive health.
  • Potassium, found in elderberries, is an essential mineral that may help regulate blood pressure.
  • Elderberries provide antioxidants, which are compounds that may help protect cells from damage.
  • The fruit's nutritional profile may contribute to overall well-being when consumed as part of a balanced diet.

Informational only · not medical advice

In the kitchen

Culinary uses

Elderberries have a long history of use in traditional cuisines worldwide. They are often transformed into jams, jellies, syrups, and wines, celebrated for their deep color and tart flavor. In some regions, elderberries are also baked into pies and crumbles, adding a unique fruity note.

Plates

Specimen photographs

Elderberry - American elderberry (Sambucus canadensis)
Rison Thumboor from Thrissur, India · CC BY 2.0source
Elderberry - Ripe Elderberry, still on the Tree, in late Summer
Taubenflieger68 · CC BY-SA 4.0source