Elderberry

Elderberry Overview

The genus Sambucus contains roughly 22 hardy, herbaceous perennials and deciduous shrubs and trees typically grown for their fruits, flowers and foliage. These are also known by the name elder or elderberry. Leaves are divided pinnately and arranged oppositely on stems. Flowers are produced in dense clustered arrangements which are either on equal length stems, forming a flat-topped structure called an umbel or on individual stalks on a branched stems known collectively as a panicle. These flowers are white or pink, with 5 petals and 5 white protruding stamens with yellow anthers. Flowers develop into clusters of black, white or red fruits.

How to propagate Elderberry

Cuttings

Softwood cuttings in summer, by seed in autumn. Hardwood cuttings in winter. Specific cultivars by cuttings only. You can also take soft pith or hollow stems cuttings with wax.

Seed

Special features of Elderberry

Attractive flowers

Other uses of Elderberry

Grown for their foliage, flowers and fruits. Suitable for coastal conditions.

Cordial

Elderberries are traditionally made into a red cordial and elderberry champagne is made from the flowers. This is traditionally made for weddings in the UK.