Sambucus williamsii Seeds | Williams’ Elder
LATIN NAME: Sambucus williamsii
COMMON NAME: Williams’ Elder
Plant Profile
Williams’ Elder (Sambucus williamsii) grows as a deciduous shrub in the moschatel family, native to moist places of the eastern Asia, while it is treasured for its long history of traditional use. In moschatel family it is flat-headed, dark-berried elder of moist places, a shrub birds and old practice of east have both known well. Mature plants top out at about Eight metres. Pollinating insects take to the flowers at once, adding a little wildlife interest to its garden value. For the small amount of care it requires, the return is remarkable.
Science & Biotechnology
Research touching on Sambucus williamsii ranges from the botany of the moschatel family to practical horticulture, including seed handling, propagation and the selection of superior forms. The Williams’ elder roots and parts are a familiar subject in traditional plant chemistry of the eastern Asia, and constituents have been examined with greatest care by researchers across the world. Its behaviour in gardens is well recorded, thanks to a long history in cultivation.
Uses & Benefits
In the garden, Williams’ Elder earns its place in borders, containers and mixed plantings, and it also rewards growers who raise plants for cutting, drying or kitchen use. In wildlife garden, the Williams’ elder is flat-headed shrub that feeds everything. Its white, fragrant heads feed insects, its dense clusters of dark berries feed birds of late summer, and leafy growth gives cover and shelter through the year. Traditional use of region keeps plant in old practice, and it grows well in moist, open, well-drained ground. Getting it going is easy; keeping it going is easier still.
Elderberry is the modern cold-season classic: its anthocyanin-rich syrup has human trials for shortening flu-like illness, and elderflower cordial and tea remain Europe’s traditional fever comfort; always cook the berries, as raw ones upset stomachs.
Growing from Seed
Sow fresh seed of Williams’ Elder under ordinary good conditions. Use a loose, well-drained seed compost, sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly, and keep everything evenly moist in bright light. Once the seedlings have made true leaves, pot them on individually and plant out when they are sturdy and conditions are right.
Our Take
Given the right start, Williams’ Elder is a long-term garden companion. Once the young plants are away, there is little left to do but watch them grow.
Related Reading
Gardeners who grow Williams’ Elder often pair it with these related subjects: