Sambucus nigra, commonly known as elder or black elder, is a fast-growing, deciduous shrub or small tree prized for its frothy summer flowers, ornamental foliage (in some cultivars), and clusters of deep purple-black berries in late summer to autumn. Valued both for its ornamental appeal and wildlife benefits, it lends a natural, slightly wild character to cottage gardens, wildlife borders, and informal hedgerows.
Typically reaching 10–20 feet tall and wide, it forms a broad, multi-stemmed shape with arching branches and finely toothed green leaves. In late spring to early summer, flat-topped clusters of creamy-white, fragrant flowers appear, attracting bees and other pollinators. These are followed by heavy bunches of small, glossy berries that are highly attractive to birds and can be used—when cooked—for syrups, cordials, jellies, and wines.
Hardy, adaptable, and low-maintenance, Sambucus nigra thrives in full sun to partial shade and tolerates a wide range of soils, including damp or clay conditions. It can be pruned hard in late winter to control size or encourage fresh, vigorous growth, particularly in cultivars grown for foliage interest.
Flowering Period
May – June: Broad, fragrant umbels of creamy-white flowers attract pollinators
July – August: Flowers give way to ripening green berries
September – October: Berries turn rich purple-black, providing food for birds
A versatile and resilient shrub, Sambucus nigra is ideal for naturalistic gardens, edible landscapes, or mixed shrub plantings where its seasonal beauty and ecological value can be fully appreciated.
Sambucus nigra, commonly known as elder or black elder, is a fast-growing, deciduous shrub or small tree prized for its frothy summer flowers, ornamental foliage (in some cultivars), and clusters of deep purple-black berries in late summer to autumn. Valued both for its ornamental appeal and wildlife benefits, it lends a natural, slightly wild character to cottage gardens, wildlife borders, and informal hedgerows.
Typically reaching 10–20 feet tall and wide, it forms a broad, multi-stemmed shape with arching branches and finely toothed green leaves. In late spring to early summer, flat-topped clusters of creamy-white, fragrant flowers appear, attracting bees and other pollinators. These are followed by heavy bunches of small, glossy berries that are highly attractive to birds and can be used—when cooked—for syrups, cordials, jellies, and wines.
Hardy, adaptable, and low-maintenance, Sambucus nigra thrives in full sun to partial shade and tolerates a wide range of soils, including damp or clay conditions. It can be pruned hard in late winter to control size or encourage fresh, vigorous growth, particularly in cultivars grown for foliage interest.
Flowering Period
May – June: Broad, fragrant umbels of creamy-white flowers attract pollinators
July – August: Flowers give way to ripening green berries
September – October: Berries turn rich purple-black, providing food for birds
A versatile and resilient shrub, Sambucus nigra is ideal for naturalistic gardens, edible landscapes, or mixed shrub plantings where its seasonal beauty and ecological value can be fully appreciated.
