Elder (Sambucus nigra)

Common Names of Elder (Sambucus nigra):

Elder, Elder Tree, Elderberry, Black Elder, European Elder

Description of Elder:

Elder, scientifically known as Sambucus nigra, is a deciduous shrub or small tree growing up to 10 meters. The bark is brownish-grey, deeply furrowed, and gnarled. It features oval, slightly serrated leaves and large umbels of off-white to cream flowers appearing from April to June. The tree produces purplish-black, juice-laden berries in large clusters.

Habitat and Distribution of Elder:

Elder thrives in diverse environments, including deciduous woodlands, hedgerows, riverbanks, roadsides, scrubland, and wasteland. It is highly adaptable and can grow in hedgerows, woodlands, gardens, and almost any place with sufficient light.

Identification of Elder:

Elder is easily recognizable by:

Leaves: Ovate, toothed leaves.
Flowers: Fragrant, off-white to cream, arranged in large, flat-topped clusters.
Berries: Clusters of dark purple to black berries.
Bark: Brownish-grey, deeply furrowed, and gnarled. Branches are brittle.

Possible Lookalikes of Elder:

Hemlock (Conium maculatum): Finer leaves, purple-spotted stems, and lacks elder's distinct aroma.
Red Elderberry (Sambucus racemosa): Similar structure but has red berries instead of dark purple/black.

Meaning of the Latin Name Sambucus nigra:

Sambucus: Derived from “sambuce,” an ancient Greek wind instrument, alluding to the hollow nature of elder twigs.
Nigra: Means black, referencing the color of the berries.

Foraging Season for Elder:

Flowers: Late May to early July.
Berries: Late August to October.

Food Uses of Elder:

Flowers:
- Elderflower cordial and champagne
- Flower vinegar and teas
- Sparkling wines
- Cosmetic products
Berries:
- Jams, jellies, pies, and sauces
- Soups and chutneys
- Juices and wine
- Syrups and sweets

Medicinal Uses of Elder:

Flowers and Berries: Known for their respiratory benefits, treating bronchitis, coughs, congestion, sinus issues, flu, and sore throats.
Elderberry Syrup/Sweets: Effective for sore throats, coughs, and colds.
Elderflower Infusions: Helpful in relieving hay fever and stress.

Other Uses of Elder:

Cosmetics: Elderflowers are used in skin and eye ointments, lip balms, sun lotions, fragranced hair, and shower products.
Crafting: Hollow elder branches are used to make jewelry, beads, whistles, and blow darts.

Safety Notes for Elder:

Raw Berries and Leaves: Contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can cause nausea and illness if consumed raw. Proper cooking destroys these compounds. The leaves, stems, and roots contain toxic compounds and should not be consumed.
Pregnant or Breastfeeding Individuals: Should avoid homemade elder products.

Harvesting Tips for Elder:

Harvest flowers on a dry day when fully open, avoiding those with brown petals.
Collect berries when fully ripe (dark purple to black). Leave some berries for wildlife.

Preparation and Storage for Elder:

Flowers: Use fresh or dry for later use in a well-ventilated area.
Berries: Remove from stems before use. They can be frozen, dried, or made into syrups, jams, or wines.

Additional Tips for Foragers of Elder:

Ensure proper identification to avoid dangerous lookalikes.
Harvest responsibly to ensure sustainability and wildlife needs.
Avoid using green, unripe berries or toxic plant parts.
Always cook elderberries to neutralize any toxins before consumption.

Other Information for Elder:

The elder tree holds cultural significance, often associated with witches and folk medicine. Notably, the wood ear mushroom (Auricularia auricula-judae) commonly grows on the dead limbs or stumps of the elder tree.

Elder is a versatile and beneficial plant foragers prize for its culinary and medicinal uses, making it a valuable addition to any foraging expedition.