Elderberry Are Back

When we first bought our property, elderberry grew everywhere throughout the property. Over the years it has pretty much disappeared. This year it is back. I don’t know why it disappeared but we are pleased to see its return.

Elderberry (Red) Sambucus racemosaNatural. Wild.

Honeysuckle family. Shrub to 10’.
Stems, which are easily broken, have thick pithy centres.
Buds large, opposite, many-scaled.
Flowers: yellowish-white, in pyramidal clusters of tiny flowers on top of persistent stalks. Blooms April-June.
Fruit: red berries. Berries are suspected of being poisonous to humans, birds relish them.
Use:
Leaves bruised and decocted – use as an insect repellent.
Make a strong infusion of flowers and use as a skin toner.
Surrounded by a wide healing aura
Plant near a house to protect against disease and evil
Carry a twig for good luck and health.
Means: zealousness.