Black Elder, Rocky Mountain elder

Sambucus melanocarpa

Physical Characteristics

Sambucus melanocarpa is a deciduous Shrub growing to 4 m (13ft 1in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen from August to September. 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

Western N. America.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[105, 161]. Low in pectin, it is best mixed with crab-apples or other pectin-rich fruits if used in making jams, jellies etc[183]. The fruit is about 6mm in diameter and is borne in large clusters[200]. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. Flowers - raw or cooked.

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Dysentery Poultice Salve TB The dried ripe berries have been eaten as a treatment for diarrhoea[257]. A decoction of the roots has been used in the treatment of diarrhoea and dysentery[257]. A poultice of the boiled, mashed roots has been used as a treatment for caked breasts, cuts and wounds[257]. A decoction of the flowers has been used in the treatment of tuberculosis, coughs and colds[257]. It has also been given to children as a spring tonic[257]. A poultice of the crushed leaves has been used to treat bruises and bleeding wounds[257].

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].