Elder (Sambucus nigra)

Elder can tolerate most types of soil and grows quite quickly. The elder yields its characteristic white blossoms, which are excellent for cordials and as a haven for insects such as moths, ladybirds, and aphids. Following this, the shrub bears tiny berries that are favoured by both birds and winemakers.

The Elder (Sambucus nigra) is a well known native tree often used in hedging. A fast-growing plant, Sambucus nigra is more often found near farms as it prefers a nitrogen rich soil and so tends to grow near sites of organic waste as well as chalky soils and coastal sites. Growing at a rate of up to 60cm per year it will provide a dense hedge very quickly up to about 5 metres high.

Tree attributes

Prefers chalky soils and coastal sites
Growth rate of 60cm per year
Can grow almost anywhere as long as it has enough sunlight
Max height of around 15 metres