Bare Root Wasatch Wild Elderberry Tree

Originating high in the Wasatch Range of northern Utah, this cultivar has been selected over decades for extreme resilience and hardiness into zone 3. Wasatch Wild produces heavy yields of large, dark purple-black berries with excellent flavor and potency—well suited for both culinary and medicinal use. A strong performer in mountain climates and cold, variable conditions.

In our zone 6 fields at Farm on Central, Wasatch Wild has shown outstanding vigor, adaptability, and heavy yields of large, dark purple black berries perfect for culinary and medicinal use.

SHIPPING INFO: Bare root plants generally ship March-May.

SIZE: Our bare root elderberries are usually between 12-16 inches (both trunk and root system). Typically elderberry plants do not grow over 12 feet tall, making them a woody shrub instead of a true tree.

The Bare Root Advantage:

• Head Start on Harvest: Bare root elderberry plants are 1–2 years old with established root systems, meaning you can expect flowers and fruit 1–2 years sooner than starting from cuttings.
• Higher Early Survival Rate: With a developed root system already in place, bare root plants establish more quickly and are more drought tolerant in their first season than cuttings.
• Plant Directly in the Ground: No rooting required. Bareroot plants go straight into your garden bed or field planting as soon as they arrive.

Why Choose Wasatch Wild Elderberry?

• Extreme Resilience: Bred and selected for cold tolerance, heat resistance, and performance in harsh growing conditions.
  
• Abundant Crops: Produces large clusters of quarter inch berries ideal for syrups, jams, wine, and wellness preparations.
  
• Versatile Growth: Thrives in a wide range of soils, from sandy loam to heavy clay.
  
• Pollinator Friendly: Creamy white spring blossoms attract bees and butterflies; ripe berries support wildlife.
  
• Self Fertile: Capable of fruiting on its own, though planting additional varieties can enhance yields.
  
• Hardy Across Zones 3 through 9: Well suited for both northern and warmer climates with reliable production.
  
• Legacy Variety: A Utah born cultivar with more than fifty years of proven resilience and vigor.

Medicinal and Nutritional Benefits

Wasatch Wild elderberries are rich in anthocyanins, antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin A, and immune supportive flavonoids. Their deeply pigmented skins signal high levels of beneficial compounds associated with respiratory support, seasonal wellness, and overall vitality. Traditionally used in herbal preparations, elderberries from this variety are ideal for syrups, tinctures, teas, jellies, and homemade health remedies. The large berry size and dense clusters make Wasatch Wild especially appealing for those seeking potent, nutrient rich fruit for culinary or medicinal use.

Planting and Growing Instructions

1. Location: Prefers full sun for maximum fruit production but tolerates partial shade.
2. Soil Preferences: Moist, well draining soil is ideal. A pH of 6.0 to 7.0 supports healthy growth.
3. Spacing: Space plants 6 to 10 feet apart to accommodate their mature size and wide growth habit.
4. Watering: Keep soil consistently moist during establishment. Once mature, Bob Gordon shows improved drought tolerance but benefits from regular watering during dry spells.
5. Pruning: Prune annually during winter dormancy for vigorous regrowth and optimal berry production.

Non-GMO Commitment: At Growing Farmers and The Farm on Central, all our plants are guaranteed non-GMO and not genetically modified in any way, upholding natural breeding methods and promoting sustainable gardening and farming practices.

Growing method: Grown on our Coop farms using natural growing methods, no chemicals used.

Which Elderberry Should I Grow?  

Elderberry Growing Instruction Guide