Korsor is a variety of black European elder notable for its large, dark, juicy berries. It grows to about 8 feet tall. Bred in Demark.

European black elderberries are the most sought-after and productive elder species because they have been selected for heavy yields and cold hardiness. The berries are renowned as a nutritive anti-viral and immune system tonic.  If you buy elderberries or elderberry tincture in the store, you are most likely looking at a variety of European black elder, Sambucus nigra. Flowers can also be harvested!

This species is partly self-fertile, so doesn’t require cross-pollination, but the yields will be heavier with a second variety planted nearby. Elder shrubs prefer partial shade to full sun, with higher yields in more sun. It’s best to irrigate them in summer. Netting may be required to keep birds from destroying berry crop. 

American elderberries (Sambucus canadensis) are native to the Midwest US and are more vigorous than black European elderberries (Sambucus nigra). Both are planted commercially for medicinal berries. Our Kootenay native blue elderberry (S. cerulea) also make wonderful medicine, and they are more drought tolerant than other varieties. Don’t accidentally mistake red elderberries (S. racemosa) for any of the edible and medicinal varieties – they are not safe to consume.