Dwarf Elder (Sambucus ebulus)

Family: Caprifoliaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Sambucus ebulus is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, beetles. The plant is self-fertile.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring in soups etc. — It is used as a flavouring in soups etc.; The fruit is about 6mm in diameter and is borne in large clusters.; Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.; Leaves are used as a tea substitute.

Habitat & North American Range

Waste ground, woods, hedgerows and scrub. especially on calcareous soils. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)