Elder Foraging

Description

Elder hedging, often featuring the European elder (Sambucus nigra), is a versatile and attractive choice for creating natural boundaries and screens. The elder is a deciduous shrub known for its lacy, compound leaves and creamy-white, flat-topped clusters of fragrant flowers. In late summer, these flowers give way to dark purple berries that are not only ornamental but also edible and often used in jams and beverages.

Elder hedging plants are valued for their fast growth and ability to thrive in various soil types. The foliage creates a dense, bushy appearance, providing both privacy and a wildlife-friendly environment. The shrub’s robust growth makes it an excellent choice for hedging, and it can reach heights of 6 to 12 feet.