Nova

The ‘Nova’ elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) is a popular, easy-to-grow cultivar of the American Elderberry, known for its reliable yield and sweet, large fruit. A seedling of Adams No. 2, it was selected in 1946 and later released by the AgCanada Research Station in Kentville, Nova Scotia, in 1959. The variety was named after its province of origin.

• Fruit Characteristics: Produces abundant clusters of deep purple-black berries that are generally considered sweet and are excellent for processing into juice, jams, jellies, and wine. They ripen in late summer/early August, often earlier than the ‘York’ variety.
• Plant Vigor & Size: It is a vigorous, multi-stemmed shrub that typically reaches a mature height and width of 6-8 feet. Its compact size makes it suitable for smaller gardens.
• Hardiness: It is very winter-hardy, generally thriving in USDA Zones 3-9 (varies slightly by source).
• Pollination: While partially self-fertile, yields are significantly increased when planted with another American Elderberry cultivar like ‘York’ or ‘Adams’.
• Growing Conditions: Prefers full sun to partial shade and rich, moist, well-drained soil. It is known for having excellent resistance to most common pests and diseases.