Elder Tree

Elder (Sambucus nigra)

Elder trees are common throughout the UK. They are relatively small trees, growing to a maximum of 15 metres tall. They are a tree well regarded by foragers and loved by wildlife.

Elder is found throughout the world in areas of temperate climate. They grow well in woodland, hedges and areas of scrub. Elders like moist, well drained soil and do best in full or partial sunlight. They are trees that do well in gardens as well as out in the wild. Many animals, birds and insects are reliant on the Elder tree for food and shelter.

Recognising Elder trees is fairly straight forward. Their leaves are long and oval shaped and are formed as leaflets (an odd number of leaves which grow together to form one leaf) which is very similar to the Ash tree. At only 15 metres tall, they are one of the smallest tree species that has leaflet leaves. Flowers are small, white and made of 5 petals. They grow clumped together and so look like a large dandelion head. They often smell sweet. Fruit is the elderberry. These are small and dark in colour and again are clumped together.

The Elder tree is a good food source not just for insects and birds but also for humans. The flowers can be harvested and when mixed with lemons, sugar and citric acid produce the well known drink Elderflower Cordial. The berries are well known for their health benefits. They are full of antioxidants and vitamins. They can be used to create Elderberry Syrup, Elderberry Tea, Elderberry Jam or used in baking recipes.

Mythology surrounds the Elder like a fog. The tree is repeatedly brought up throughout history for a variety of reasons. In Christianity the tree is supposed to be the location of choice for Judas’s death. It is said the tree is supposed to keep the Devil away when planted outside, but burn it and you invite the Devil inside. It is not a wood that burns well due to a soft inner section through the middle. While this soft middle makes for poor burning quality it becomes useful for creating musical instruments. It is said fairies creates pipes and whistles from this tree. It is also ill advised to sleep under an Elder as it is said to have mildly narcotic effects.

The Elder tree: one of mystery and history but a tree with great wildlife and sustenance value. A tree with properties for healing and health. It’s a lot to pack into a tree of small stature. What do you believe? I’ll let you make your own decision on that.

Fun Fact: Elder can grow in cemeteries and wasteland. Because of this it has a reputation for being a ‘weed’ that will optimise it’s opportunities.