Why plant a black elder in the garden?

Whilst the black elderberry captivates with its beauty, it possesses many qualities that make it a first-rate ally in the garden. Although undemanding, it is nonetheless beneficial and generous, provided you know how to make the most of it. Long reputed to be home to fairies and nature spirits, it was known as a protective plant, prompting many people to plant it near their homes. For centuries, the power and uniqueness of this plant have been recognised. What are its benefits, and why should you plant it in your garden? That’s what I’d like to explore with you in this article.

Black elder: a resilient species

Black elder (Sambucus nigra) is a shrub from the Caprifoliaceae family that is particularly favoured by wildlife. It provides a safe haven from potential predators. So, by having a black elder in your garden, you’re promoting biodiversity, particularly the presence of pollinators which will help boost the reproduction of your plants. Black elder also provides shelter for small herbivorous animals that help regulate the growth of certain plants, ensuring a healthy balance between species. Its small, dark berries are a favourite treat for birds such as blackbirds, thrushes and garden warblers.

It is found almost everywhere: Europe, North Africa and Western Asia, except in mountainous areas. It thrives in hedgerows, on the edges of forests or near watercourses. Reaching a height of 2 to 10 metres, it adapts to all types of soil. Whilst it thrives in full sun, it copes very well with partial shade and even tolerates full shade. It can withstand temperatures as low as -29 °C, making it a hardy, perennial species that grows very rapidly.

Black elder: a versatile plant, a permaculturist’s
ally

This shrub can be used to make a repellent against certain pests such as aphids, caterpillars, scale insects and stink bugs, earning it the nickname ‘stink bug herb’. It is also effective against certain small mammals such as moles, field mice and voles, which are instantly repelled by its strong odour.

To make the repellent, harvest 1 kg of leaves and place them in 10 litres of water. Leave to ferment for about ten days, then strain the mixture, and you’ll have a powerful repellent. You can either spray it directly onto the plant or add it to your watering can.

This mixture also makes an excellent plant fertiliser. Finally, when added to compost, its leaves help speed up the decomposition process.

A concentrated treat

Let’s not forget to mention the delicious black elderberry syrup. With 100 g of fresh berries, 100 g of honey, 1/2 litre of water and the juice of half a lemon, you can make a whole bottle of syrup to enjoy all year round. You’ll find plenty of other recipes that are beneficial for the body, using parts such as the berries, flowers and even the leaves or bark.

A protector of wildlife, a source of compost and liquid manure, a repellent for some and a delicacy for others… Thanks to its versatility, this plant could, on its own, embody the very spirit of permaculture. Whether in the vegetable patch or the garden, the black elder is a must-have. Follow in the footsteps of our ancestors and plant some at home! Among the hundreds of species, you’re sure to find a variety that will charm you.