A small deciduous tree or shrub, native to the UK and Europe. Grows to around 6 metres, with feather-like leaves, large sprays of creamy-white flowers in the spring, followed by small black berries.
This product is only available for purchase in increments of 25
 
Description 
Common Elder (also known as Black Elder or just Elder) is found predominantly in countryside hedgerows, easily identified by its large sprays of fragrant creamy-white flowers in the spring followed by the sprays of black berries in the late summer.
 
Planting Position 
Suitable for most locations and soil types. Can handle exposed and coastal sites and is fairly hardy. Best grown in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. It will even thrive on extremely chalky soils.
 
Size 
Growth Rate: Medium 
Final Height: 6-8m 
Final Spread: 3-5m
 
Foliage & Flowers 
Leaves are feather-like in shape (pinnate), turning yellow in the autumn. Flowers are both male and female and are in large flat sprays, these are followed by black berries in late summer.
 
Plant Interest 
Elder is very attractive to wildlife; the flowers provide nectar for bees and insects, and many moth caterpillars feed on the foliage, including the white sContainerted pug, swallowtail, dot moth and buff ermine. Various birds eat the berries, and small mammals such as dormice and bank voles will eat both the flowers and the berries.
 
Landscape Use 
Elder works well as part of a mixed native hedge or as a specimen plant in a wildlife garden. It naturalises in woodland, scrub and wasteland.
 
Uses 
The timber is hard and often used for whittling and carving. The flowers are used for making wine, cordial and tea or they can be fried to make fritters. The berries can be used to make wine and preserves or can be baked in a pie with other fruits. The flowers and berries are mildly poisionous, so ensure they are cooked before eating.