Elder – Sambucus Nigra - Elderflower, Elderberry

Witchcraft, myth and magic since the earliest times are associated with this herb. It is believed that Judas hanged himself on an Elder tree. From this it became a symbol of sorrow and was often planted in graveyards.
Elder is a deciduous tree native to Europe and Western Asia.

Elder grows up to 33ft tall with leaves that are dark green and have a feathery appearance that are divided into five elliptic leaves. Umbrella - shaped clusters of cream scented flowers appear in mid summer, followed by clusters of black fruits on red stalks that swing freely about come autumn time.
Elder can be grown from seed, plant the seeds in rows about 1inch deep. Elder will tolerate most soils, make sure it is a well-drained soil and plant in semi shade. Elder will take over your garden if you let it. Cut back hard in early spring.

Sambucus nigra - Berries of the Elderberry

Sambucus nigra - Flowers of the Elderflower tree.

Medicinal

Elder has anti-catarrhal and anti-inflammatory properties. The leaves can be used as an insect repellent. An ointment can be made to use on chilblains, sprains and bruises. Infusions of the flower are used for colds, sinusitis and feverish conditions; it is also used for hayfever. Fresh and dried flowers are used in skin toners, hand creams, and also used in many other cosmetics.

Culinary

Both the flowers and berries can be used to make many recipes from savoury to sweet. The sweet flower can be used to make syrups, flavour jellies and ice-creams. Use the berries for pickles and chutneys, combine the berries and cook in fruit pies. Elder is famous for its wines and cordial, try them hot they are wonderfully soothing. Elder should never be eaten raw, as the flowers or berries contain a mildly poisonous alkaloid. This is destroyed by cooking.

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