About Elderflower
The elder is a sacred tree in European folklore, home to the Elder Mother. Traditionally you ask her permission before taking any flowers or wood. Elder protects the home and its flowers bring healing and blessing.
The elder tree is traditionally considered sacred; ask before cutting from a living tree.
History & folklore
In Scandinavian and English folklore, the Elder Mother (Hyldemoer) lives in the elder tree and will take revenge on anyone who cuts it without asking. Elder was planted by doors to keep witches away, and elder wood was never burned in the hearth. Its hollow stems were made into pipes and whistles.
Correspondences
- Traditional uses
- Protection, prosperity, healing
- Latin name
- Sambucus nigra
- Element
- Water
- Planet
- Venus
- Best day
- Friday
- Moon phase
- Waning moon — for protection, clearing and letting go
- Intentions
- Protection, Healing
Ways to work with it
- Ask the tree aloud before gathering, and leave a small offering of water or thanks.
- Hang elder flowers or twigs over doors and windows for protection.
- Make elderflower cordial in early summer as a blessing for the household.
Growing & gathering
Elder is a common hedgerow shrub with flat clusters of creamy flowers in early summer and dark berries in autumn. Ask permission, take only a few flower heads per bush, and leave plenty for the birds and berries. Dry flowers on paper, or use them fresh for cordial.
Elder leaves, stems, bark, seeds and raw berries are toxic. The flowers are safe, and the berries only once properly cooked.
Spells to try
Pairs well with
NettleProtection, healing, exorcism
IvyProtection, healing, binding
AngelicaProtection, exorcism, healing
HawthornProtection, love, BeltaneCorrespondences are traditional associations gathered from folk practice and modern craft books. They vary between sources, and they are not medical advice. Read our editorial approach.