Red Elder (Sambucus microbotrys)

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

Sambucus microbotrys is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2 m (6ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. 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. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries, Flowers

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Flowers - raw or cooked. Fruit - raw or cooked. The fruit is about 4mm in diameter and is borne in large clusters. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. — Flowers - raw or cooked.; Fruit - raw or cooked.; The fruit is about 4mm in diameter and is borne in large clusters.; Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Habitat & North American Range

Moist places, 1800 - 3300 metres in California. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)