It was once believed that the elder tree (Sambucus nigra) had the power to ward off evil spirits, and render useless the spells of a witch. As a result, trees would be planted at gateways and in gardens, with whole hedgerows encircling the homes of the most superstitious.
It was also believed that breaking so much as a twig of elder might bring ill fortune, though such a portent is overlooked by anyone searching for kindling. The dry, brittle branches of an elder burn with great speed and heat.
Learn more about the elder tree, including what its flowers and berries look like.
What does an elder tree look like?
Elderflowers
In June, the elder is at its finest, its leaves almost lost beneath the white of its flowers. The petals are small and clustered, but form an umbel that is broad and soporifically scented, like a dollop of perfume-infused, inflorescent ice-cream.
The crowns of elderflower have long been gathered. Some are dunked in batter and fried, while others find their way into cordials, wines or bottles of fermented fizz.
Elderberries
This impacts little upon the tree’s regeneration, however, and by August those pollinated flowers that remain will have transformed into berries that ripen from green to deep claret. These too may be harvested, by makers of wine or roach anglers sourcing a free bait.
Elder tree and wildlife
Many more are eaten by birds, with blackcaps, thrushes and woodpigeons all content to gorge before dispersing the undigested seeds through their droppings.
