Collection: Sambucus
Explore the most extensive Sambucus (elder) collection in the UK, curated by Ed Brown, the Plant Heritage National Collection Holder of Sambucus in Worcestershire. With 147 named varieties, including rare, exclusive, and one-of-a-kind hybrids, this collection is unmatched in diversity and quality.
As a recognised Sambucus specialist and a featured guest on BBC Countryfile, Cotswold Garden Flowers is dedicated to growing, preserving and sharing the very best elder plants. From ornamental dark-leaved cultivars to fragrant pink-blushed flowers and fast-growing statement plants, each variety has been carefully selected for garden impact, wildlife benefits, and even culinary use.
-
SAMBUCUS NIGRA 'GOLDEN TOWER'
Regular price £12.50Regular priceUnit price / per -
SAMBUCUS NIGRA 'HASCHBERG'
Regular price £15.00Regular priceUnit price / per -
SAMBUCUS 'MILK CHOCOLATE' (9cm pot)
Regular price £12.50Regular priceUnit price / per -
SAMBUCUS 'GATE INTO FIELD'
Regular price £15.00Regular priceUnit price / per -
SAMBUCUS NIGRA 'SAMBU'
Regular price £15.00Regular priceUnit price / per -
SAMBUCUS 'THE SWEET ONE' (2L)
Regular price £15.00Regular priceUnit price / per -
SAMBUCUS 'CHOCOLATE MARZIPAN' (2L)
Regular price £15.00Regular priceUnit price / per -
SAMBUCUS '14TH.DECEMBER'
Regular price £15.00Regular priceUnit price / per
Sambucus - FAQs
What is Sambucus?
Sambucus, commonly known as elder or elderberry, is a genus of deciduous shrubs and small trees valued for their ornamental foliage, fragrant flowers, and dark berries.
How do I grow Sambucus in my garden?
Sambucus is an easy-to-grow shrub that thrives in most UK gardens. Here’s how to give it the best conditions:
Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade. Dark-leaved varieties, such as Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace', develop richer colours in more sun.
Soil: Grows well in moist, well-drained soil but is adaptable to a wide range of conditions, including clay and sandy soils.
Watering: Requires regular watering while establishing. Mature plants are drought-tolerant but appreciate extra moisture in dry spells.
Pruning: Best pruned in late winter or early spring. Hard pruning can rejuvenate older plants and encourage fresh, vigorous growth.
Are the flowers and berries of Sambucus edible?
Yes, the flowers and berries of Sambucus nigra are edible and widely used in food and drink.
Elderflowers are often used to make cordials, syrups, and teas. They have a delicate, floral flavour and can also be dipped in batter and fried as elderflower fritters.
Elderberries are packed with antioxidants and are traditionally used in jams, jellies, wines, and syrups. However, they must always be cooked before eating, as raw elderberries contain compounds that can cause stomach upset.
Not all Sambucus species are edible, so it’s important to identify the variety before harvesting.
How do I propagate Sambucus?
Sambucus is easy to propagate, making it a great plant to share or expand in your garden. The best methods are:
Softwood Cuttings: Taken in late spring or early summer, soft, green shoots root quickly when placed in a moist potting mix.
Hardwood Cuttings: In late autumn or winter, take mature, woody stems and plant them in soil to root over winter.
Suckers: Some Sambucus varieties produce suckers, which can be carefully dug up and replanted.
What are the best Sambucus varieties for UK gardens?
There are many stunning Sambucus cultivars to suit different garden styles. Popular choices include:
'Black Lace' – Deeply cut, dark purple leaves with pink flowers, offering a dramatic contrast in borders.
'Black Beauty' – Rich, dark foliage with large clusters of pink-tinged flowers.
'Golden Tower' – A more compact variety with bright golden-yellow leaves, great for small spaces.
'Lemony Lace' – Fine, feathery yellow-green foliage that provides a lighter, airier look in the garden.
What's trending?
Explore these 2025 bestsellers - proven favourites among UK gardeners, these plants have earned their place at the top.
-
IRIS LAZICA (bare-rooted)
Regular price £8.00Regular priceUnit price / per -
NARCISSUS 'CEDRIC MORRIS'
Regular price £30.00Regular priceUnit price / per£50.00Sale price £30.00Sale -
TULIPA SPRENGERI 'TROTTER'S FORM'
Regular price £10.00Regular priceUnit price / per -
ASPIDISTRA ELATIOR 'LENNON'S SONG' (1L pot, 2-3 leaves min)
Regular price £32.00Regular priceUnit price / per