Sambucus nigra Caprifoliaceae

CULTIVATION Elder is a deciduous perennial shrub or tree with aromatic, oval, toothed, mid-green leaves and flat umbels of tiny, creamy-white flowers from early summer. It grows to a height and spread of 3-5m (10-16ft). Propagate it by sowing ripe berries or taking hardwood cuttings during spring or late summer. Prune elder to shape during the winter. Harvest the flower heads as soon as they appear from early summer onwards and the berries from late summer. Grow elder as a garden and specimen herb.