Black elder, elderberry - Sambucus nigra "Haschberg"

The Haschberg** black elderberry (*Sambucus nigra 'Haschberg'*) is an excellent berry variety that is highly regarded among fruit growers due to its attractive appearance, sweet-tart flavor, and rich nutritional profile. This variety has become popular in gardens and orchards thanks to its outstanding taste and abundant yields.

**Growth Characteristics:**
The **Haschberg** black elderberry is a medium-sized shrub or small tree that typically grows to a height of 2 to 3 meters. The plant is vigorous and grows quickly, contributing to its dense branching. The branches are well-branched, and the leaves are large and dark green, providing a nice contrast to the dark berries. The Haschberg variety adapts well to various soil conditions but thrives best in nutrient-rich, well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. The plant is frost-resistant, allowing it to be successfully cultivated in cooler climates.

**Fruit Specifications:**
The berries of the **Haschberg** black elderberry are medium-sized, usually ranging from 5 to 10 mm in diameter, and have a deep black color. When ripe, the berries have a sweet-tart flavor that is pleasantly astringent and refreshing. These berries are high in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C, antioxidants, and beneficial minerals such as potassium and iron. Thanks to these health-promoting attributes, the **Haschberg** black elderberry is not only delicious but also an extremely healthy choice.

**Uses:**
The **Haschberg** black elderberry offers a wide range of uses. Freshly consumed, the berries make for a delightful snack; they are also excellent for making jams, jellies, syrups, and wines. The black elderberries are great ingredients for various desserts, including cakes, pastries, and fruit salads. Additionally, the berries can be used in the preparation of different beverages, such as cocktails and smoothies, where they add fresh flavors.

**Growing Requirements:**
The **Haschberg** black elderberry is a sun-loving plant that performs best in sunny, well-ventilated locations. The soil should be nutrient-rich and well-drained, as elderberries are sensitive to water stagnation. An ideal soil pH is between 6.0 and 6.8, which optimizes nutrient uptake for the plant. Regular watering and mulching are important to maintain soil moisture and promote healthy root development.

**Harvesting:**
Harvesting typically takes place in the summer, particularly between July and August. The ripeness of the berries can be assessed by their color and taste; the sweetest and juiciest berries are normally deep black and should be easily plucked from the bush. The ripe berries should be harvested carefully by hand to minimize damage, as they can be easily crushed. The correct timing for harvesting is crucial to preserve the flavor and quality of the fruit.

**Benefits:**
The **Haschberg** black elderberry exhibits excellent resistance to diseases and pests, making cultivation generally straightforward. This variety typically produces yields of around 3 to 6 tons per hectare, providing economically viable options for fruit growers.

In summary, the **Haschberg** black elderberry is not only a tasty and nutritious choice but also an easy-to-grow plant that is of interest to both hobby gardeners and professional fruit producers. Its health benefits and versatile applications make it a valuable addition to any garden or orchard.