About
Sambucus nigra, the common elder, is a bushy, large shrub or small tree to 6 m with pinnate leaves turning pale yellow in autumn. Flat sprays of aromatic, cream flowers in early summer are followed by small, black berries. The flowers and berries have a long tradition of culinary and medicinal use. An ornamental and useful native shrub for a moist, sheltered garden.
About the genus
Sambucus, the elders, are herbaceous perennials, deciduous shrubs and small trees with pinnate leaves and umbels or panicles of small, creamy-white flowers followed by red, white or black berries. Popular and ornamental shrubs and trees for a range of garden positions.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height4-8 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens, Coastal
Native toEurope N Africa SW Asia
FragranceFlower
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, fruit/flowers edible if cooked. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling 16393,sambucus-racemosa,Sambucus racemosa,red-berried elder,Sambucus racemosa
Care notes
CultivationEasy to grow in moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soils and also thrives on extremely chalky sites
PruningPruning group 1. Will tolerate hard pruning to restrict the size
PropagationPropagate by softwood or hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids and glasshouse red spider mite
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to verticillium wilt and honey fungus