The plant features dark green, pinnately compound leaves that are arranged in an opposite pattern along the stems. In early summer, the Nova elderberry produces large, flat clusters of creamy-white flowers that are highly attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Flowers give way to clusters of small, dark purple-black berries that are prized for their culinary and medicinal uses. The fruit is high in antioxidants, vitamins, and other beneficial compounds, and can be used to make jams, jellies, syrups, and wines.