Sambucus racemosa Tenuifolia - European Red Elder

The Sambucus racemosa 'Tenuifolia' is a form with small growth and finely cut foliage of the elderberry bush. This less vigorous shrub has a spreading habit, wider than tall. It reaches a height of 1m (3ft) in 10 years and has deeply cut, narrow leaves, resembling fern foliage, in a medium green colour. Light and structural, it requires soil richer in organic matter than other elderberries and can be planted in full sun or partial shade.

The Sambucus racemosa or mountain elderberry is a deciduous bush belonging to the Caprifoliaceae family, like honeysuckles, weigelas and valerians. It is a very hardy wild species found in Europe, North Africa and Asia Minor.

The elderberry bush or Sambucus racemosa 'Tenuifolia' is a horticultural variety that differs from the typical species by its moderate growth, slow growth and particularly light foliage. The plant has a bushy habit and flexible branches and forms a fluffy, airy mass, reaching a height of about 1m (3ft) in 10 years and a width of 1.50m (5ft). The deciduous, opposite leaves are finely cut leaflets with toothed edges in a medium green colour. Melliferous and slightly fragrant flowering occurs in May or June, depending on the climate. It takes the form of conical panicles composed of small star-shaped creamy white flowers appearing at the tips of the stems. After pollination, clusters of small round berries form, tightly packed together. They are truly decorative at the end of the season, in a brilliant red, standing out against the foliage. These fruits are a delight for birds.

The 'Tenuifolia' Elderberry is more demanding than most elderberries; it has less vigorous growth, takes time to establish and requires rich soil. It is charming in a small garden if it can spread out peacefully. Plant it in a shrub border, accompanied by Physocarpus, Berberis, Ceanothus of medium growth. Also consider Hydrangea quercifolia, Euonymus alatus 'Compactus'. It enhances the flowering of roses with its feathery foliage.

In the garden:

The leaves of the elderberry are known to accelerate compost decomposition. The black elder leaf brew is useful in organic gardening to combat mildew and attacks from aphids or rodents: macerate 1kg of leaves for a few days in 10L of water and spray as needed. It can also be planted in an orchard, where it attracts insect-eating birds.