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SAMBUCUS nigra
Commonly known as Black elder, Common elder, Pipe tree
Cream coloured fragrant flowers and black fruits
Plant Details
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Floweringlocal_floristJanlocal_floristFeblocal_floristMarlocal_floristAprlocal_floristMaylocal_floristJunlocal_floristJullocal_floristAuglocal_floristSeplocal_floristOctlocal_floristNovlocal_floristDec
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Good to knowUK native. Wildlife plant - insects, birds.
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Pests & DiseasesBlack fly infest the young shoots and foliage.
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Place of originEurope, north Africa, south-west Asia.
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Deciduousleaves to 25cm (10in) long, each having 5 toothed, mid-green leaflets.
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White
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Fully hardy
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Pinnate
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Serrate
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Ovate
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Height6m (20ft)
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Spread6m (20ft)
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Tall ShrubUpright, bushy shrub with stout shoots. Produces flowers in flattened panicles to 20cm (8in) across followed by spherical, glossy, black fruit.
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Hardy - very cold winterHardy in all of UK and northern Europe. Plant can possibly withstand temperatures down to -20°C (-4°F)
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Scented flowersMusk-scented.
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Summer Seasonal Interest
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harmful if eatenPeople & pets, i.e. cats, dogs, rabbits rodents, notably cats, dogs. Fruit and flowers edible if cooked
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Bee friendly
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Bird friendly
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Butterfly friendly
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Rabbit Resistant
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Mature Size6m (20ft)
6m (20ft)
Planting Tips and Care Advice
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Garden Location/Conditions
BorderSuitable for a large shrub borderCoastal / windsweptCottage gardenWoodland garden
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Pruning group
Pruning group 1Suitable for: Deciduous and evergreen trees, and some deciduous shrubs.
Pruning: Minimal pruning required. Prune wayward or crossing branches to maintain a healthy framework.
When: When dormant in the late winter/early spring. Some in the summer/autumn to prevent bleeding of sap.
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Soil Conditions
Fertile moist well-drained soilModerately fertile
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Sun Requirements
Full sunPartial shade
Sambucus - Growing Guide
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