Elderberry Bush
Sambucus nigra
- Masses of heavily scented cream flowers in the late Spring can be harvested to make Elderflower Cordial or even Elderflower Champagne.
- Berries can be used for homemade wines, jellies or preserves.
- Partially self fertile.
Supplied as a containerised plant approximately 2 feet (60 cm) tall including pot.
This Product is Available Now.GBP1 or more £7.95 each
Description
Probably one of the most underrated fruiting plants there is as both the flower and the fruits can be used! No wonder they are so popular with foragers.
In late Spring the heavily scented flowers appear to almost smother the tree. These can be picked off and used to make Elderflower Cordial, Elderflower Wine or even Elderflower Champagne - but be careful, that can be 'explosive' fun!
If you choose not to use the flower, then come late Summer these will form into huge trusses of tiny black berries than will hang heavy from the tree. These tiny black fruits are wonderful for making homemade wines with a rich sweet flavour similar to Port.
In Portugal in the 1700's unscrupulous vintners were found to be mixing elderberry juice to otherwise poor quality wines to add depth of colour and sweetness and selling them on as Port. To prevent ongoing damage to the reputation of the Port industry in 1756 and official growing region for Port was set up and all Elderberry Trees in Northern Portugal were uprooted. So that's how good a homemade wine you can make!
The berries can also be used for making jam, jelly or chutney. In a raw state elderberries are mildly poisonous, but once cooked are fine.
Garden animals and birds also like these trees so it certainly is a good addition to your garden. In our opinion they grow best as a large bush / small tree (you'll obviously need to be able to reach to pick the flower / fruits).
According to old tales, it is said that having an Elder planted in your garden keeps the devil away, however if you burn it you will see the devil!
Also called, Elder, Black Elder, European Elder, European Elderberry, European Black Elderberry, Pipe Tree, Common Elder, Acte, Arn Tree, Boon Tree, Boor Tree, Bore Tree, Bour Tree, Bur Tree.
- Plant approximately 6 feet (1.8 metres) apart to form a hedge.
- Can grow to 30 feet (9 metres) tall and wide but can be mantained at around 6 feet (1.8 metres).
- Growth rate: approximately 12 - 18" per year (30 - 45cm).
- Will grow in wet and dry ground, doesn't mind an exposed location.
- Prefers a sunny position but will tolerate partial shade.
- Partially self fertile.
- Deciduous green leaves.
- Culinary Uses
- Great for making cordials, wine or jam from.
- Medicinal Uses
- Rich in Vitamin C.
- The roots can be used to treat bronchitis.
- Can be used to treat dry coughs, upper respiratory colds and fevers.
Disclaimer
As with all alternative medicines and plants with purported medicinal benefits it is important to inform your health care providers that you are using them; this helps to ensure safe and coordinated care. We can accept no liability for any side effect or contingency from any allergy or any other cause or harm that may arise. If in doubt please do consult a medical practitioner before using.
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