Sambucus chinensis Chinese elder (Caprifoliaceae)

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Sambucus chinensis
Chinese elder
(1 Page of 5)

The Sambucus chinensis plant species is found in E. Asia - China, Japan. It is a member of the Caprifoliaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Chinese elder. Some home gardeners know the variety as S. thunbergiana. S. javanica. non Blume.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
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Latin Name:  Sambucus chinensis
Common Name:  Chinese elder
Family:  Caprifoliaceae
Author:  Lindl.

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].

Mature Height:  1.5   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Thickets and woods in hills and at low elevations in mountains, C. and S. Japan[58].

Cultivation Notes: Tolerates most soils, including chalk[200], but prefers a moist loamy soil[11, 200]. Grows well in heavy clay soils. Tolerates some shade but is best in a sunny position[1]. Tolerates atmospheric pollution and coastal situations[200]. There is some confusion over the correct name of this species. It is said to be a synonym of S. javanica by some botanists, but this probably refers to a herbaceous plant, the correct name of which should be S. chinensis. The true S. javanica is a shrub[K].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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