Photo: Anne Burgess / CC BY-SA 2.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
Spring–Summer
Elderflower
Sambucus nigra
Family: Adoxaceae
Heady & Exoticmuscatsweet
SeasonSpring–Summer
OriginEurope, western Asia
IntensityStrong
LifespanPerennial
About This Flower
Heady & Exotic · Spring–Summer bloomer
Elderflower's flat-topped clusters of tiny white flowers release a heady, muscat-grape fragrance that has inspired summer cordials, wines, and fritters across northern Europe for generations.
Symbolism & Meaning
zealousness, compassion, protection
In the Victorian language of flowers, elderflower means “Zealousness”.
Habitat & Environment
Europe, western Asia
Elderflower is native to Europe, western Asia.
Quick Reference
- Scientific NameSambucus nigra
- FamilyAdoxaceae
- Native ToEurope, western Asia
- Bloom SeasonSpring–Summer
- LifespanPerennial
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