Chinese Elder

Sambucus chinensis

Physical Characteristics

Sambucus chinensis is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure. It can tolerate atmospheric pollution.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Leaves Root Edible Uses: Fruit - cooked. It is usually preserved, used in confectionery or as a tea[183]. The fruit is about 4mm in diameter and is borne in large clusters[200]. Some caution is advised, see notes on toxicity above. Stems and leaves - cooked[183]. Some caution is advised, see the notes on toxicity above. Root - cooked. Use with caution, see the notes above on toxicity.

Medicinal Uses

Emetic Parasiticide Emetic[178].

Known Hazards

Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, the leaves and stems of some, if not all, members of this genus are poisonous[9, 76]. The fruit of many species (although no records have been seen for this species) has been known to cause stomach upsets to some people. Any toxin the fruit might contain is liable to be of very low toxicity and is destroyed when the fruit is cooked[65, 76].