Elder Tree

Description

Elder tree (Sambucus nigra) is a native deciduous tree or large shrub commonly found across the UK in hedgerows, woodland edges, and rural landscapes. This small tree is beloved for its gently scented, creamy-white flowers in early summer, followed by clusters of black berries in autumn.

People have long valued elder trees for traditional uses like elderflower cordial, elderflower champagne, and elderberry juice. Elder trees also play an important role in the landscape. Its flowers support pollinating insects, while the berries provide a valuable food source for birds and small mammals, making it an excellent choice for wildlife-friendly planting.

How To Identify

The elder tree has pale, lightly textured bark and brittle branches, with soft, pinnate leaves made up of toothed leaflets. It bears green leaves through spring and summer, turning a pale yellow in autumn.
In late spring and early summer, it produces broad, flat clusters of fragrant cream flowers, which later develop into glossy black berries that are rich in vitamin C.

How to Grow

Elder trees are easy to establish and fast-growing. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and tolerates a wide range of soil types, including damp ground. Well-suited to native hedging, informal planting, and naturalistic gardens, this native hedge requires little maintenance once established.