Contents
Description
Sambucus Ebulus, commonly known as dwarf elderberry, danewort, or European dwarf elder, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Adoxaceae family. This plant is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia and is known for its medicinal properties. The plant can grow up to 2 meters tall and can spread up to 1 meter wide. Sambucus Ebulus produces small, creamy-white flowers that bloom in mid-summer, followed by red or black berries in autumn.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Adoxaceae |
| Genus | Sambucus |
Appearance
Sambucus Ebulus has a woody stem and a bushy habit. The leaves are pinnate, with 5-7 leaflets that are ovate in shape and serrated along the edges. The flowers are small and creamy-white, with a distinct unpleasant odor. The fruit is a small, round, shiny berry that is red when immature and black when ripe. The plant has a bitter taste and is not commonly used for culinary purposes.
Care Guide
Sambucus Ebulus is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, especially during hot and dry periods.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, fertile soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
- Sunlight: Sambucus Ebulus prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sambucus Ebulus is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can be affected by a few common pests and diseases:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck sap from the leaves and cause curling and distortion.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems.
- Verticillium wilt: This fungal disease can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves, and eventually death of the plant.
Habitat
Sambucus Ebulus is commonly found in hedgerows, woodlands, and along riverbanks. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate partial shade. The plant is also commonly grown in gardens as an ornamental shrub.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sambucus Ebulus poisonous?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant, including the berries, leaves, and bark, are poisonous if ingested in large quantities.
Q: Can Sambucus Ebulus be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, the plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its diuretic, laxative, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Q: Can Sambucus Ebulus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it may not reach its full potential size.
Q: When is the best time to prune Sambucus Ebulus?
A: The best time to prune the plant is in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Sambucus Nigra (European Elderberry)
- Sambucus Canadensis (American Elderberry)
- Sambucus Racemosa (Red Elderberry)
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/sambucus-ebulus-danewort
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/6649/sambucus-ebulus/details
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/shrub/samebu/all.html
