ELDERS (Sambucus) are bold, adaptable, deciduous shrubs grown for their foliage, flowers and edible berries.
Their foliage could be described as shaped like giant rose leaves, with leaflets arranged in opposite pairs along the central stem, with one leaflet at the tip. Many modern varieties have leaves that are repeatedly split and toothed so some look as frilly as a Japanese maple.
The colour of the foliage has also become more varied and dramatic. Some have leaves in deep bronzed crimson, some in bright-yellow or gold, and some are variegated. Many would make splendid foliage plants even if they had no other features.
Small berries
The white or creamy flowers are tiny, but gathered into broad, flat or occasionally rounded heads that canin pies and a variety of drinks. They are much appreciated by birds and other wildlife
