Red Coast Elder

Sambucus racemosa var. racemosa

Physical Characteristics

Sambucus racemosa var. racemosa is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft 10in). 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 - Alaska to California.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Fruit - raw or cooked[61, 105, 257]. The fruit can be made into jams and preserves[257]. It can also be dried for winter use[118]. The fruit is about 5mm in diameter and is borne in large clusters[200]. Some caution is advised, see notes above on toxicity. Flowers - raw or cooked.

Medicinal Uses

The leaves are abortifacient, analgesic, oxytocic and poultice[257]. A decoction of the leaves has been used to terminate a pregnancy and can also be taken during labour to ease the birth[257]. An infusion of the leaves has been used as an antiseptic wash on areas affected by blood poisoning[257]. A poultice of the pounded leaves has been applied to abscess and boils and also to sore joints to help reduce the swelling[257]. A poultice of the cooked shoots has been used to alleviate pain[257]. The bark is cathartic[257]. An infusion of the bark has been used in the treatment of coughs and colds[257]. A poultice of the bark has been applied to sore joints to help reduce the swelling[257]. The fruit has been cooked and eaten as a treatment for stomach problems[257].

Known Hazards

Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, the leaves and stems of some 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].