Bareroot Sambucus nigra (Elder)

A versatile native shrub valued for its clusters of fragrant white flowers in early summer followed by glossy black berries that attract birds and can be used for preserves and cordials. Its broad, serrated leaves create a lush backdrop in hedgerows and wildlife gardens, while some ornamental varieties offer striking purple foliage or golden leaves. Fast growing and adaptable to most soils, it thrives in sun or partial shade, making it excellent for naturalistic plantings or as a robust screening plant. The flowers and berries have long been used in traditional remedies, adding practical value to its wildlife benefits and garden appeal. A superb choice for creating an informal, ecologically rich hedge or feature shrub in larger gardens.

Family of Trees: Adoxaceae

Habit: Deciduous Shrub/Small Tree

Growth Rate: 60 to 120 cm/year

Optimal Temperature: 15-25°C, hardy to -25°C

Harmful if Eaten?: Berries toxic when raw (cooked edible)

Flowers or Berries: Creamy White Flowers, Black Berries

Hardiness: H5-H6 (Very Hardy)

Hardiness ratings

All ratings refer to the UK growing conditions unless otherwise stated. Minimum temperature ranges (in degrees C) are shown in brackets

○ H1a: under glass all year (>15C)
○ H1b: can be grown outside in the summer (10 - 15)
○ H1c: can be grown outside in the summer (5 - 10)
○ H2: tolerant of low temperatures, but not surviving being frozen (1 to 5)
○ H3: hardy in coastal and relatively mild parts of the UK (-5 to 1)
○ H4: hardy through most of the UK (-10 to -5)
○ H5: hardy in most places throughout the UK even in severe winters (-15 to -10)
○ H6: hardy in all of UK and northern Europe (-20 to -15)
○ H7: hardy in the severest European continental climates (< -20)