Sambucus ebulus Dwarf elder (Caprifoliaceae)

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Sambucus ebulus
Dwarf elder
(1 Page of 5)

The Sambucus ebulus plant species is found in Possibly native to Britain. It is a member of the Caprifoliaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Dwarf elder.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Sambucus ebulus
Common Name:  Dwarf elder
Family:  Caprifoliaceae
Author:  L.

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 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:  1.2   Mature Width:  1

Habitat:  Waste ground, woods, hedgerows and scrub. especially on calcareous soils[7, 13].

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]. A very invasive plant, sending up new shoots a metre or more away[K]. It can be used for naturalising in the rougher parts of the garden[233], growing well on rough banks etc[1]. The whole plant, when bruised, emits a most unpleasant fur-like smell[245]. The bark, in particular, smells like stale perspiration[245].

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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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