Sambucus Nigra
If you’re looking to add a touch of natural beauty and practicality to your garden, then I’d highly recommend planting an elder tree. Not only does it look pretty with beautiful frothy flowers but it also comes with a plethora of benefits that make it a valuable addition to any garden.
If your garden is in a particularly windy spot then elder can a useful windbreak as it is very tough and wind resistant, even to salt laden wind on coastal areas. They are also a very good pioneer species, thriving in poor conditions and providing shelter whilst other less robust species get going.
Elderberries boast a range of health benefits. As with most purple and black berries, elderberries are rich in anthocyanins which are powerful antioxidants that helps maintain a strong and resilient immune system. They are also known for their anti-viral properties due to high levels of flavonoids which bind to and prevent H1N1 infections, helping to treat influenza A and B.
The leaves of the elder plant can be used as an insect repellent, either by simply rubbing the leaves on your skin or by boiling in water and spraying on yourself/clothes, or also on plants as an insecticide – just be warned that you it might not just be insects that keep their distance with the smell!
Dyes can also be produced from elder trees. The bark from old branches and the roots can produce a black dye; green dye is made from the leaves and deep purple – black dye can be made from the berries and has even been used as a black hair dye.
For the forest gardeners amongst us (and I like to hope that’s all of you!), elder has many, many, MANY edible uses – or in my case drinkable uses! Not only can you make jams and jellies but elderflower cordial and elderflower champagne are delicious, as are elderberry cordial and elderberry wine.
Don’t just take my word for it. Elderberries are plentiful right now. If you don’t have any in your garden (yet!) then there are plenty around for foraging – just be sure to leave some for the birds. Once you’ve harvested your berries be sure to try out some of the recipes below and let me know how you get on – or feel free to share your own favourite elderberry and elderflower recipes. Just be sure not to eat the raw berries!
https://tinandthyme.uk/2020/06/elderflower-champagne/
https://www.thedelectablegarden.co.uk/2023/09/22/how-to-make-elderberry-jam/
https://scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk/2017/09/make-elderberry-cordial/
Leave a Reply