Red Elder

Sambucus microbotrys

Physical Characteristics

Sambucus microbotrys is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2 m (6ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. 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. 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

South-western N. America.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Fruit Edible Uses: Flowers - raw or cooked. Fruit - raw or cooked[177, 257]. The fruit is about 4mm in diameter and is borne in large clusters[200]. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Medicinal Uses

None known

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].