The Elder is a small shrub like tree that is native to most of Europe. The flowers and the berries are both used to make a variety of drinks and tonics. They are widely cultivated and grown for their pretty highly scented clusters of creamy flowers in early summer and their blue-black berries in autumn. Elders are easy to grow and tolerating semi shade are a useful addition to gardens and hedgerows. They are helpful to birds and butterflies and fallen fruit will help feed our little wildlife creatures.

Haschberg cultivar: A variety developed in Europe with the same scented white flower and delicious berries in late summer.

Soil: Most soils

Light: Full and partial sun

Position: Exposed or sheltered

Hardiness: Fully hardy

Flowers: White in June and July

Berries: Deep, glossy blue-black

Height and Spread at Maturity: 6m x 4m