Flower Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| English Name | Common Elder |
| Also Known As | Elderflower |
| Scientific Name | Sambucus nigra |
| MainColor | White |
| PlantType |  Tree |
| Distribution |  Native |
| Season Found | May (May - Jul) |
| ImageUrl | Sambucus-002 |
| Photographer | DP |
| Location Found | St Albans |
| Country Found | UK |
| Last Updated | 01 September 2026 |
| Photo Quality | B |
Flower Details
Description
A deciduous shrub or small tree with frothy clusters of creamy-white flowers in early summer, followed by dark purple-black berries in late summer and autumn. It grows abundantly in hedgerows and woodlands and has a long history of culinary and medicinal use.
Distribution
Native to Europe, including the UK, and widespread across the country.
Medicinal/Other Uses
Flowers are used to make elderflower cordial and teas, while berries are used in wines, syrups, and jams. Medicinally, elder has been used to treat colds, flu, and inflammation.
Edibility
Flowers and ripe berries are edible when cooked.
Human Toxicity
Mildly_Toxic
Unripe berries, leaves, and stems contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea if consumed raw.
Pet Toxicity
Mildly toxic – leaves, stems, and unripe berries can cause gastrointestinal upset in pets.
Active Compounds
Anthocyanins, flavonoids, cyanogenic glycosides.
Quality Issue
Mostly flower