Elderflowers: A Versatile Plant with a Long History of Use
Elderberries are well-known for their delicious fruit, but did you know that the flowers of the elderberry plant are also edible and have a wide range of uses? Elderflowers have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and cuisine, and they’re gaining popularity today as a natural remedy and culinary ingredient.
Growing Elderflowers
American elder is a fast-growing shrub that can tolerate a variety of conditions, making it a great choice for gardeners of all levels. It will grow well in full sun or partial shade and in nearly any type of soil. Elderflowers bloom in the late spring or early summer, and they have a delicate, sweet fragrance.
To grow elderflowers, simply plant a cutting or a small shrub in well-drained soil. Water regularly, especially during hot weather. Elderflowers are relatively low-maintenance plants, but they do benefit from occasional pruning to maintain a nice rounded shape and to keep the shrub healthy.
Elderflower Uses
Elderflowers have a wide range of uses, both culinary and medicinal.
Culinary Uses:
- Elderflowers can be used to make a variety of delicious foods and drinks, including cordial, syrup, tea, wine, and beer.
- Elderflower cordial is a sweet, floral-flavored syrup that can be used to add flavor to cocktails, mocktails, and desserts.
- Elderflower syrup is a thick, concentrated syrup that can be used to sweeten and flavor baked goods, desserts, and drinks.
- Elderflower tea is a refreshing and flavorful beverage that can be enjoyed hot or cold.
- Elderflowers can also be used to flavor wine and beer, giving them a unique floral aroma and taste.
Medicinal Uses:
Elderflowers have been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including:
- Colds and flu
- Coughing
- Sinusitis
- Constipation
- Inflammation
- Laryngitis
- Diabetes
Elderflowers are thought to have antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, it’s important to note that elderflowers should not be consumed raw, as they contain a toxic compound called sambunigrin. Cooking or drying elderflowers removes this compound, making them safe to consume.
If you’re considering using elderflowers for medicinal purposes, be sure to talk to your doctor first.
Harvesting Elderflowers
Elderflowers are ready to harvest when they have just opened up and are still white and clean. To harvest elderflowers, simply clip the stem about four to six inches below the flower cluster.
Elderflowers are delicate, so it’s important to handle them with care. Once you’ve harvested the elderflowers, you can use them fresh or preserve them for later use.
To preserve elderflowers, you can dry them or make them into a syrup. To dry elderflowers, lay them out on a screen and turn them several times over a few days. Once the elderflowers are dry, remove them from the stems and store them in a sealed bag.
To make elderflower syrup, combine equal parts elderflowers and sugar in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool. Strain the syrup into a clean jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
Foraging for Elderflowers
Elderflowers are common in many parts of the world, so you may be able to find them growing wild in your area. If you’re foraging for elderflowers, be sure to identify them correctly. Elderflowers have white, umbrella-shaped flowers and dark green leaves.
Once you’ve identified elderflowers, you can harvest them as described above. Be sure to only harvest elderflowers from healthy plants, and avoid harvesting from plants that are growing near roads or other sources of pollution.
Elderflowers are a versatile plant with a long history of use. They’re easy to grow, and they can be used to make a variety of delicious foods and drinks. Elderflowers also have a number of medicinal properties, making them a valuable addition to any home apothecary.
