Sambucus racemosa
Sambucus racemosa
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Pl. 5315 — Sambucus racemosa
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IOverview
Overview
Sambucus racemosa, commonly known as European elder or black elder, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to much of Europe and parts of North America. It thrives in moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH between 5 and 5.5, making it adaptable to various growing conditions. The plant's native range includes regions such as Alaska, Albania, Alberta, Austria, Belarus, and many other European countries. Sambucus racemosa is valued for its edible flowers and fruits, which can be used in jams, syrups, and teas. Its light requirement of 5/10 indicates it prefers partial shade to full sun. This plant reaches a height of about 3 meters and is known for its distinctive clusters of small white flowers followed by dark purple berries.
Quick answers
What is Sambucus racemosa?
Sambucus racemosa, commonly known as European elder or black elder, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to much of Europe and parts of North America. It thrives in moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH between 5 and 5.
What is Sambucus racemosa used for?
Traditionally used for immune support. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 1 evidence-ranked use of Sambucus racemosa
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources- Sambucus racemosa has been traditionally used in European herbal medicine to support the immune system, particularly during cold and flu season. A decoction made from its flowers or berries may help maintain healthy immune function.
The mechanism involves anthocyanins and other flavonoids that have antioxidant properties and can modulate cytokine production, supporting immune health.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Sambucus racemosa support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Sambucus racemosa thrives in moist, light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils with a pH of 5-5.5. It prefers partial to full sunlight and is hardy in zones 3-7. This plant grows up to 3 meters tall and can be found as both a tree and shrub. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist but avoid overwatering. Propagate via cuttings or seeds. Harvest its edible flowers and fruit for use in various culinary applications.
Light
5/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
3-7
Habit
Tree, Shrub
Mature size
3.0 m tall
Soil pH
5–5.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Sambucus racemosa for the first time
7steps
Start with planting Sambucus racemosa in a well-prepared soil and follow basic care instructions for success.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Sambucus racemosa plant, garden gloves, trowel, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is workable and temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy with a pH of 5-5.5. Amend as needed to achieve this condition.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants into a prepared garden bed or container. Space them about 3 meters apart for shrubs or trees.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide regular watering during dry spells and mulch around the base to retain moisture. Prune in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to encourage new growth and remove any dead or damaged branches. Flowers can be harvested for use.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersFruit
Edible uses: The flowers and fruits of Sambucus racemosa are edible. The flowers can be used raw in salads or cooked to make fritters, while the fruits are often made into jams or jellies. Both parts are typically harvested when ripe and can also be dried for later use.
Other uses:textilesLumberFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe11 regions
native (11)AlbaniaAustriaBelarusBelgiumBulgariaFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryItalyRussia
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Americas1 region
native (1)United States
Broader regions
native:Alberta, Arizona, Baltic States, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Czechoslovakia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Manitoba, Massachusetts
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family, common use cases, and growing requirements.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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