Sambucis nigra, Common Elder

Common Elder is species of complex flowering plants. It is deciduous shrub or a small tree up to 6 meters high and has long history of household use as a medical herb.

It is very easily growing and tolerates most soils condictions, as well as atmospheric pollution and coastal situation. Nevertheless the tree is very 'rabbit' resistant.

I found this Common Elder in Longford Park underneath the Black poplar from one of my previous posts. It is young and looks very well, no more than 3 meters tall, in sunny position and well-drained soil, and also in a good company with some more Black poplars around it.

The bark is light grey at first and later on it changes to coarse grey outer bark with lengthwise furrowing.

Leaves are arranged in opposite pairs 10 - 30 cm long, pinnate with 5 to 7 leaflets, with a serrated margin. They fall in October/November in exposed areas and later in sheltered.

Flowers are hermaphrodite, born in large corymbs. They have sweet smell and are very attractive to insects.

Fruits are glossy dark  purple to black berries, produced in drooping clusters in autumn. They are important food for many birds.