Chinese Elder
Sambucus javanica
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Pl. 2CFA — Sambucus javanica
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IOverview
Overview
Chinese Elder (Sambucus javanica) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to regions including Afghanistan, Assam, Bangladesh, Borneo, Cambodia, China North-Central, and South-Central areas. This plant thrives in moist conditions with light to partial shade, making it adaptable to various soil types such as sandy, medium, and clay. Known for its edible parts—flowers, fruit, leaves, and roots—it has been utilized both medicinally and as a food source across its native range. Its distinctive features include its light requirement and ability to grow in diverse environments, contributing to its widespread distribution and cultural significance.
Quick answers
What is Chinese Elder?
Chinese Elder (Sambucus javanica) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to regions including Afghanistan, Assam, Bangladesh, Borneo, Cambodia, China North-Central, and South-Central areas.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Elder Stress Relief
stresstincture
Used traditionally to soothe nervous tension.
Immune Boost
immunedecoction
Historically used to support the immune system.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Chinese Elder thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions but can tolerate a range of climates found in its native habitat. Propagate through root cuttings or seeds for best results. The plant is edible, with parts including flowers, fruit, leaves, and roots being useful.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
For first-time growers
How to grow Chinese Elder for the first time
7steps
Chinese Elder is a hardy plant that can thrive with minimal care, making it perfect for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, potting soil, a container if planting in a pot.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start young plants indoors 4-6 weeks before outdoor planting.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight for a week.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade, and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Prune in late winter or early spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove dead branches. Harvest flowers and fruits as desired.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersFruitLeavesRoot
Edible uses: The Chinese Elder can be enjoyed in various forms. Its flowers and fruits are commonly eaten raw or used to make jams and syrups. The leaves and roots may also be consumed, though they are less common in culinary uses. Roots and leaves might be prepared as teas or incorporated into traditional dishes.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
29 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
29 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 29 native
Asia15 regions
native (15)AfghanistanBangladeshCambodiaChinaIndiaJapanLaosMyanmarNepalPakistanPhilippinesSouth KoreaTaiwanThailandVietnam
Broader regions
native:Borneo, East Himalaya, Hainan, Jawa, Kazan-retto, Lesser Sunda Is., Nansei-shoto, New Guinea, Ogasawara-shoto, Sulawesi, Sumatera
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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