Dwarf Elder
Sambucus ebulus
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Description
Dwarf Elder, or Sambucus ebulus, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to southern and central Europe and parts of Asia. It typically grows up to 1.5 meters in height and is characterized by its compound leaves and clusters of small, white flowers that bloom in summer, followed by black berries. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, Dwarf Elder plays a significant role in biodiversity enhancement and ecosystem support. It serves as a valuable understory plant in food forests, providing habitat and food for various wildlife species, including birds and beneficial insects. Historically, it has been used for its medicinal properties and as a natural dye. In guild design, it pairs well with nitrogen-fixing plants and those that attract pollinators, enhancing the ecological balance of the area.
Growing Details
Dwarf Elder thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soils with a preference for slightly acidic to neutral pH. Mulching with organic matter helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. It benefits from companion planting with species like comfrey and yarrow, which can enhance soil health and attract beneficial insects. Avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot. Harvest berries when fully ripe, typically in late summer, and process immediately to reduce toxicity. Store processed products in
Tags
Hedge
Attracts Wildlife
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Colouring
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Sambucus ebulus</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to southern and central Europe, and pa
applicable geo region: Europe and Asia
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of Jun for 60 days
Harvest:
beginning
of August for 60 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(1/5)
edible uses: The berries and other parts of the plant are generally considered toxic if consumed raw due to cyanogenic glycosides. They can be used in small quantities when cooked or processed to make jams or syrups, but caution is advised. Always ensure proper preparation to reduce toxicity.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, Dwarf Elder has been used in herbal medicine for its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been applied in the treatment of respiratory issues, rheumatism, and skin conditions. However, due to its potential toxicity, it should be used with caution and under professional guidance. The roots and leaves are typically used in decoctions or poultices.
health concerns: All parts of the plant contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide and are toxic if consumed raw. Proper processing is required to reduce toxicity.
other uses: The plant can be used as a natural dye source, producing a range of colors from its berries and leaves. The dye is traditionally used in textiles.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Sambucus ebulus
common names: Dane Wort; Walewort; Danewort
family: Adoxaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Sambucus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 1.0 m
spacing: 1.0 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 25ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: Medium
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(6/10)
first harvest: 365 years
life span: 5 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 1.5 m
max width: 0.5 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Dwarf Elder thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soils with a preference for slightly acidic to neutral pH. Mulching with organic matter helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. It benefits from companion planting with species like comfrey and yarrow, which can enhance soil health and attract beneficial insects. Avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot. Harvest berries when fully ripe, typically in late summer, and process immediately to reduce toxicity. Store processed products in
Potential Disturbances: Dwarf Elder is generally pest-resistant but can occasionally be affected by aphids and fungal diseases. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Use neem oil or garlic spray as organic treatments for fungal issues. Planting garlic or chives nearby can help repel pests naturally.
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