The elder is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to Europe, North Africa and certain regions of Asia. It belongs to the Adoxaceae family and is renowned for its clusters of fragrant white flowers and dark purple to black berries. Elderberries are widely cultivated for their many uses, from cooking to ornamentation.
Elderberry extracts are renowned for their antioxidant properties.
Interestingly, elder wood is used to make musical instruments and tools because of its fine grain and strength.