Elderberry, Elderflower, European elder

Elderberry is a small tree or shrub growing to 6mx6m at a fairly fast rate. The plant is known as the ‘Medicine Chest’ of the country people for its associated medicinal qualities. Note that all parts except the blossoms and the very ripe berries, are poisenous and should not be ingested. The flowers are used a flavouring to make elderflower tea, or elderflower sparkling wine and eldeflower syrups among many other culinary uses. The berries too are made into syrups or brewed into teas.