Collection: 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.