Overview
Sambucus ebulus is a herbaceous perennial in the genus Sambucus, part of the Viburnaceae family. It typically grows around 1.2 m tall. Sambucus ebulus grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to Belgium, Brussels-Capital Region, Flemish Region, Walloon Region and Flanders.
About the genus
Sambucus is a genus of between 20 and 30 species of flowering plants in the family Viburnaceae. The various species are commonly referred to as elder, with the flowers as elderflower, and the fruit as elderberry.
Wikipedia contributors, "Sambucus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Sambucus
In the garden
Sambucus ebulus is a herbaceous perennial native to regions of Belgium including the Brussels‑Capital Region, Flemish and Walloon Regions. In the UK it behaves as a fully hardy perennial (H7; USDA zones 4–8) and flowers from May to July. Give it full sun and a reliably moist but well‑drained soil; it will tolerate sandy, loamy and clay textures provided water does not sit on the crowns. Plant at a depth consistent with neighbouring perennials and allow enough space for stems to reach about 1.2 m. Mulch can help retain moisture through drier spells but avoid waterlogging. Use dwarf elder where a herbaceous, upright perennial of around 1 m height is wanted in a sunny border or naturalistic planting. Take care when cutting back or deadheading and when handling seedheads, because the species is harmful if eaten. The fruit and flowers are only considered edible after cooking, and gloves or other protective equipment are recommended during pruning or removal.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Sambucus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Sambucus ebulus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous perennial
- Height
- 1.2 m
- Native to
- Belgium, Brussels-Capital Region, Flemish Region, Walloon Region, Flanders
- Toxicity
- Harmful if eaten, fruit/flowers edible if cooked. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs, cats): Harmful if eaten, fruit/flowers edible if cooked - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Sambucus ebulus?
Sambucus ebulus prefers full sun.
What soil does Sambucus ebulus need?
Sambucus ebulus is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How big does Sambucus ebulus grow?
Sambucus ebulus reaches a height of 1.2 m.
Is Sambucus ebulus hardy in the UK?
Sambucus ebulus has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
Is Sambucus ebulus toxic?
Harmful if eaten, fruit/flowers edible if cooked. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs, cats): Harmful if eaten, fruit/flowers edible if cooked - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants.
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