European elder

European Elder (Sambucus nigra) is a species of flowering plant in the family Adoxaceae, native to most of Europe.

Description

The European Elder is a deciduous shrub or small tree growing to 4–6 m (rarely to 10 m) tall. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs, with five to seven (rarely nine) leaflets with a serrated margin. The flowers are creamy white, 5–6 mm in diameter, produced in large, flat corymbs 10–25 cm diameter in late spring to mid summer. The fruit is a dark purple to black berry 3–5 mm diameter, produced in drooping clusters in the late autumn.

Distribution and habitat

The European Elder is widespread in Europe, from Ireland and Portugal north to Scandinavia and east to Russia and the Caucasus. It is also found as an introduced species in North America and Australasia. It is found in a variety of habitats including forests, scrub, hedgerows and on waste ground.

Uses

The European Elder has a long history of use for its medicinal and edible properties. The flowers and berries are both edible and have been used to make elderflower cordial and elderberry wine. The berries are also used in traditional medicine for their purported immune-boosting properties.

Cultivation

The European Elder is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of soil types and conditions. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It can be propagated by seed or by cuttings.

Conservation

The European Elder is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. However, like all wild plants, it is vulnerable to habitat loss and degradation.

See also

• Elder (genus)
• Sambucus
• Adoxaceae

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