• +27 72 952 4980
  • info@gjherbs.co.za

Elderberry

Gallery

Common Name:

Elderberry

Botanical Name:

Sambucus nigra

Family Name:

Adoxaceae

Exposure:

Full Sun

Common uses:

Elder Berries are my all-time favorite herb when it comes to colds and flu. These little gems are formed in clusters after flowers have been pollinated and should be avoided until they are ripe as the green berries contain a compound harmful to humans. When ripe however, these berries pack a big punch in immune boosting properties and this actually prevents the virus from entering a healthy cell and replicating. The added benefit is that these berries can be turned into jams and jellies and they retain their medicinal properties. The berries are not naturally sweet and can be dried or preserved. They can also be crushed and made into a tincture. The flowers are used in flavorings and there are numerous recipes for elder flower wines and cordials. These usually create their own “fizz” due to a naturally occurring yeast on the flowers.

Growing:

In Sout Africa, there is a naturalized or endemic species that does not produce berries in such large quantities as the European elder and hence we prefer to grow the European variety. These shrubs or small trees need lots and lots of compost and will have stunted growth if this demand is not met. For this reason, we plant our elder berries right next to the compost heap where their roots can access the compost teas that leach out of newly formed heaps. They need full sun and will not tolerate too much shade. Once established, a deep watering every 2nd week should be sufficient, but more water will mean more growth.