Danewort

Danewort (Sambucus ebulus) is a herbaceous species of elderberry native to Europe and southwestern Asia. It is also known as dwarf elder, walewort, or blood hilder.

Description

Danewort is a perennial plant that grows to a height of 1–2 meters. It has erect, unbranched stems and opposite, pinnate leaves with 5–9 leaflets. The flowers are white, borne in large, flat-topped clusters, and bloom in late summer. The fruit is a small, black berry.

Habitat

Danewort is commonly found in waste ground, hedgerows, and woodland edges. It prefers calcareous soils and can often be found in limestone areas.

Uses

Historically, Danewort has been used in traditional medicine for its purported anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties. The berries and roots have been used to make dyes.

Toxicity

All parts of the plant are considered toxic if ingested, containing cyanogenic glycosides which can release cyanide when metabolized.

Etymology

The name "Danewort" is said to derive from the belief that the plant grew from the blood of Danish warriors who died in battle.

External links

• Wikimedia Commons has media related to Sambucus ebulus.