Sambucus nigra Madonna - Black Elder

Sambucus nigra Madonna is a decorative bush that blooms abundantly. In June, terminal cymes of creamy white flowers emerge. The 2 cm (1in) wide umbels are honey producing. In late summer the flowers are replaced by small red fruits in spherical berries that turn black. These fruits attract birds and are used to make jams or wine. Toxic when raw, they become edible when cooked.

This elder, with a compact and rounded habit, has deciduous and ornamental foliage of dark green variegated with bright yellow. The large leaves, measuring up to 25 cm (10in) long, release a strong odour when crushed.

Sambucus nigra is a species with very good hardiness that can reach a height of 2 to 3 m (7 to 10ft) at maturity. You can plant it in flowerbeds or as a standalone specimen. This elder will prosper on slopes as well as in informal or screen hedges. Native to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia, it is a plant with many medicinal properties.