Chinese Elder (Sambucus chinensis)

Family: Caprifoliaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Sambucus chinensis is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries, Leaves, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Fruit - cooked. It is usually preserved, used in confectionery or as a tea. The fruit is about 4mm in diameter and is borne in large clusters. Some caution is advised, see notes on toxicity above. Stems and leaves - cooked. — It is usually preserved, used in confectionery or as a tea.; The fruit is about 4mm in diameter and is borne in large clusters.; Some caution is advised, see notes on toxicity above.; Stems and leaves - cooked.

Habitat & North American Range

Thickets and woods in hills and at low elevations in mountains, C. and S. Japan. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)