A Toast to the Elder Tree

The elder trees are in full flower in the North East and their clusters of sweetly scented flowers stand out along this woodland edge. These flowers can be used to make a refreshing summertime cordial, which I looked forward to partaking of after a hot day surveying this wood!

Compared to the Springtime when a number of trees and shrubs are in flower, elder provides an important nectar source for insects at this time of year.

These fragrant flowers will develop into striking dark purple berries in the autumn which are relished by birds and mammals. These berries are also favoured by some enthusiasts for making another more warming drink elderberry wine.

CHEERS!

elder budburst & primrose appear

Spring seems to be happening in a far more condensed way in recent years. This elder is in a sheltered sunny spot and is usually the first tree in leaf in this wood. In contrast to the alder and the elm it produces leaves early in the season, while it's one of the last trees to produce flowers.

Primroses, the first roses of Spring, are also appearing in sheltered spots.