GardenWizzPlant Care Card

Elder

Sambucus nigra · Shrub

Hardiness
H6 Hardy — very cold winter (to −15 to −20°C)
Position
Full sun, Partial shade
Height × Spread
3–10 m × —
Soil
moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soils; also thrives on extremely chalky sites; tolerates wet and dry soils; not prone to waterlogging
Flowering
May–July
Toxicity
Harmful if eaten, fruit/flowers edible if cooked. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling

The Gardening Year

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
🪴 Plant out
🌸 In flower
✂️ Prune

Watch out for

Verticillium wilt: Remove and burn affected wood immediately; avoid replanting elders in the same spot for several years.

Honey fungus: Improve soil drainage and remove infected roots; severe cases may require removing the plant.

Aphids: Squash by hand, spray with water, or use insecticidal soap if infestations are heavy.

Glasshouse red spider mite: Increase humidity by misting leaves and treat with horticultural oil or a miticide if necessary.

Elder leaf blotch: Rake up fallen leaves to reduce spores and ensure good air circulation around the plant.

Full guide: gardenwizz.com/plants/elder © GardenWizz — UK gardening encyclopedia