Over the past several years, hundreds of American elderberry shrubs have taken root across the Horn Farm's landscape.

While these hardy plants support ecological health across the seasons, late summer is a special time: greeting us with dark purple berries that are well-loved by birds and people alike.

Syrup made from elderberry fruit is an immune-boosting preventative and remedy for ailments like colds and flus. It also has a range of culinary uses, imparting a delicious medicinal boost to drinks, ice cream, desserts, and more.

Join us for an in-depth exploration of the American Elder (Sambucus canadensis), where we'll discuss ecology and history, identification and harvest, and the many ways we can incorporate this amazing plant into our lives. This class will take us from collecting berries to crafting medicine:

In the Field | while touring the Horn Farm's elderberry patches, we'll discuss identification, ecology, ethnobotany, and harvesting in wild contexts.

In the Kitchen | after harvesting elderberries from the field, we'll walk through the process of making medicinal syrup from start to finish

All participants will leave with a small jar of finished syrup. Expect to leave with purple fingers, and a newfound appreciation for one of our favorite shrubs.

Bring a drawing pad and pencil for sketching and notes, and dress for the weather. We’ll be outside, rain or shine, and experiencing the plants up-close.

**Online pre-registration is required to attend.  Visit this link to register https://hornfarmcenter.org/civimessages/event/info/?reset=1&id=1239