Southern Elder

Sambucus australis

Shrub3×2 mzone 9–13light shade

Profile

Family: Adoxaceae
Habit: Shrub
Height: 3 m
Spread: 2 m
Growth: fast
Lifespan: 20 years
First yield: after 2 years
Hardiness: zone 9–13
Shade tolerance: light shade
Soil: Sand, Silt
Soil moisture: moist – very wet
pH: 6 – 7

Flowering & harvest

	J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
Flowering
Fruit harvest

Times apply to the northern hemisphere in a temperate climate and shift with altitude and cultivar.

Uses

Edible5 of 10

Medicinal6 of 10

Other uses4 of 10

Growing

Sambucus australis prefers sunny to partly shaded sites with well-drained, humus-rich soil. Regular watering promotes growth, especially in dry periods. Propagation is by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings in spring. The plant can be grown in temperate to subtropical zones but needs winter protection in colder regions.

⚠️ Hazards

Toxicity: slightly toxic

This is no substitute for expert identification. When in doubt, do not eat it.

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