A branchy tree or shrub with dense foliage, its trunk and branches have a corky consistency, and the young stems are hollow, with a white pith inside.
Curiosities
Sambucus was the Roman name for elder, and it derives from the Greek word sambuke, which is a musical instrument made from its wood.
With its hollow stems, whistles, flutes, and blowguns are made.
Height | 7 to 9 m. |
Leaves | Deciduous, opposite, odd-pinnate, and composed of 3-7 dark green leaflets, with a finely serrated margin, they are oval-shaped and end in an elongated tip. |
Flowers/Fruit | The flowers appear in spring in very numerous and compact whitish clusters; they are tiny, showy, and aromatic. The fruits, also in numerous groups, are smaller than a pea and turn black upon ripening. |
Climate/Habitat | Well-developed soils are required, provided they have sufficient moisture. It is found in valleys, ravines, and along the banks of rivers and streams. It needs plenty of light. |
Common Name | Elder |
Scientific Name | Sambucus nigra |
Genus | Sambucus |
Family | Adoxaceae |