Elder - Sambucus nigra (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Elder

Also known as: Common elderberry

Elder is a malodorous shrub whose berries nevertheless act as an important food source for birds. To humans, except for its flowers and ripen fruits, other parts are poisonous. Ripen fruits can be cooked and made into jams, jellies and chutneys, while flowers could be made into syrups, but it is recommended to be guided by a professional before picking.

Scientific classification

Species

Elder (Sambucus nigra)

Honeysuckles, moschatels and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

4 m to 10 m

Plant Height

6 m

Spread

Green, Yellow

Leaf Color

5 mm to 6 mm

Flower Size

Black, Purple

Fruit Color

White, Cream

Flower Color

Green, Yellow, Cream, Black

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Elder

Attributes of Elder

Growth Rate

During Spring and Summer, elder exhibits rapid growth, accelerating its flowering and leaf production. This fast-paced development results in substantial height increase, transforming elder from bud to fully matured plant within these seasons. Despite the reduced growth rate in other seasons, elder maximizes these sunnier periods to rapidly progress through its growth stages.

Distribution of Elder

Distribution Map

Elder is native to Europe but has also been introduced to much of South America, Australia, Scandinavia, and North Africa. It naturally grows in many habitats, including hedgerows, woods, waste places, and scrublands. It is cultivated as an ornamental and occasionally as a crop in its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Hedgerows, scrub, woods, roadsides, waste places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Environmental Protection Value

Black elderberries have a strong resistance to hydrogen fluoride and can be used as a shelter forest.

Garden Use

Elder are a genus of ornamental shrub that work well as a hedge bush. Some species have variegated foliage, making them attractive garden additions. The showy and fragrant flowers and berries will attract a variety of pollinators and birds to the landscape.

Symbolism

Endings and rebirth, healing.

Interesting Facts

Elder are considered a habitat of the soul. The Scots used to collect elder and hang them on doors to drive away bad luck. The Elder Wand of "Harry Potter" is made of elder.

Name Story

Common elder: It is often called common elder. People wouldn't believe it if you tell them that the word elder is derived from the word "old". Actually, it originated from the word "æld" from the Anglo-Saxon language meaning fire. This is because the hollow stems of the branches were used as bellows to blow air into fire.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Elder, including the following common varieties :

Elder 'Guincho Purple'Elder 'Eiffel 1'Elder 'Eva'Elder 'Aurea'

Toxicity

Consumption of any raw parts of elder can lead to moderate-severity poisoning, causing symptoms like vomiting, nausea, and severe diarrhea. Cats and dogs are especially at risk from accidental ingestion. Immediate veterinary assistance is crucial if ingestion occurs. Both animal owners should prevent access to all parts, particularly the seeds, of elder to avoid poisoning.

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Quickly Identify Elder

Deciduous plant, reaching 8-20 feet (2.4-6 meters) in height and width.

Oppositely arranged compound leaves with 3-9 serrated ovate leaflets.

Clusters of tiny creamy-white flowers in large, flat-topped cymes.

Lustrous glossy black berries measuring about 3/8 inches (1 cm) in diameter.

Distinct musky scent from delicate flowers during summer blooming period.

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Care Guide for Elder

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Elder prefers moist environments with consistent humidity and balanced water needs. Water once every 1-2 weeks for optimal growth. As a deciduous plant, elder sheds leaves annually, requiring increased water to support new growth during this period.

Fertilize: For optimal growth of elder, apply balanced fertilizers (10-10-10) in spring and switch to high-nitrogen before flowering. Fertilize monthly, adjust frequency seasonally, and water elder after application to prevent root burn.

Pruning: Elder is a deciduous shrub that produces fragrant flowers and dark berries. Prune in early spring to remove weak stems and enhance air circulation, promoting health. Cut back old wood for robust flowering, and regular pruning maintains size, shape, and fruit production.

Propagation: The best seasons to propagate elder are Autumn and Winter using Cutting or Layering methods. Propagation is moderately easy, indicated by new growth and budding. For optimal results, maintain proper moisture and warmth.

Repotting: Repot elder every 2-3 years in early spring, using a pot a few inches wider to support growth. Maintain consistently moist soil and place elder in partial sunlight for optimal recovery and healthy foliage.

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Images of Elder

Attributes of Elder

Distribution of Elder

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Elder

Care Guide for Elder

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