The tall shrub or tree native to the mountains of South America. It produces very large fruit (the largest in its genus), which are much tastier than the common black elderberry (S. nigra)—they lack that characteristic "pharmacy" flavor. The plant surprisingly survives winters well in Poland in zones 6b/7a. It flowers and bears fruit. This species of elderberry is very difficult to buying in Europe. A packet of 50 seeds is available (undried, stored moist for optimal viability). Seeds should be sown in pots immediately upon receipt and placed in a cool basement or (well-covered) in the garden. They will germinate in spring. Alternatively, the seeds can be stratified in a moist substrate in the fridge until sprouts appear.