General Questions about Elderberries 1. What is elderberry and what makes it different from other berries? Elderberries come from the elder shrub, a hardy plant long valued for its wellness benefits. Unlike blueberries or raspberries that are mainly enjoyed for flavor, elderberries are prized for their rich antioxidants, vitamins, and traditional immune support. 2. What’s the difference between American elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) and European elderberry (Sambucus nigra)