Description

Elderberry is a lovely shaped deciduous shrub or small tree to 6 metres tall by 3 metres wide with glossy deep green pinnate leaves and sprays of fragrant tiny white flowers. The flowers are followed by clusters of purple/black berries in March-April. The berries are used in pies, jams and jellies; while both the flowers and fruit are used to make wine or liqueurs. It is an undemanding plant that is frost resistant and thrives well in most temperate regions with moist, fertile soil.

Cultivation

The gross feeding plants must be protected from hot winds and will grow in any acidic to slightly acidic, well drained soil which has generous amounts of well rotted organic matter or compost applied to it before planting. Water in well at planting time and ensure that the soil is kept moist at all times there after. Plants will respond well to regular applications of liquid fertiliser and watering throughout the growing season. In winter, prune to remove any weak or unproductive stems and cut young shoots back by half to maintain shape. Elderberry plants will reach full production after about three years.