Elder

Description

Elder is a fast-growing deciduous shrub or small tree, up to 7 metres tall or more. It has stems with a spongy pith, compound leaves and, between May and June, large flat umbels of tiny cream-white, very fragrant flowers. In late summer it produces hanging clusters of small, glossy blackish-purple berries.

Habitat and distribution

It is widespread in Europe, western Asia and North Africa. It grows wild at woodland edges, in hedgerows, on waste ground and near settlements, favouring fertile, nitrogen-rich soils. It is a pioneer plant, very common near dwellings.

Uses in cooking and tradition

It has been a valued culinary plant for centuries: the flowers are used to make cordials, refreshing drinks and fritters, while the berries, cooked, go into cakes, jellies, juices and jams. Importantly, flowers and berries should always be eaten cooked or processed. The raw berries and green parts contain substances that can cause nausea and stomach upset, which are destroyed by cooking.

• Gather the flowers in early summer, the berries in late summer
• Eat flowers and berries only after cooking
• Prune in late winter to control its vigorous growth

Value for wildlife

Elder is invaluable for biodiversity: the flowers attract great numbers of pollinating insects, while the ripe berries are an important autumn food for very many birds. In European folk tradition it is surrounded by numerous legends and medicinal uses.