Where can I find elderflower in NZ?
Where can I find elderflower in NZ?
Elderflower grows in big fluffy flower heads. The roads of Canterbury’s Selwyn district are virtually lined with elderflower. It springs from the hedges and dominates the green space around country ditches. This time of year, you’ll recognise it by its clumps of tiny white flowers and light perfume.
Can you grow elderflower in New Zealand?
In Europe, where they are often considered a weed, elder trees are found in woodland margins and along hedgerows, they are a common sight here in North Otago and Canterbury where birds have spread their seeds after dining on ripe berries. They can be grown countrywide but will prefer areas that have cold winters.
Can I grow elderflower in my garden?
Elder will grow anywhere, and this is why, in the selected varieties, they make a useful garden plant. They will grow as happily on chalk as they will on thin acidic sand, and give them heavy, wet clay and they will put on more than a metre a year.
Can you eat elderflower berries?
How to use elderflowers. The flowers and berries are the only edible part of the plant. They are mildly toxic and have an unpleasant taste when raw. Cooking destroys the toxic chemicals.
Where do you find Elderflowers?
Elderflowers grow on bushes, the specific term for these is Sambucus. Depending on how old they are they can turn into a giant tree-like bush the size of a house. You can find them everywhere ranging from parks, fields, forests and alongside big streets.
How long does elderflower take to grow?
How to care for elder
| Flowering season(s) | Spring |
|---|---|
| Soil moisture | Moist but well-drained |
| Ultimate height | Up to 4m (13.5ft) depending on variety |
| Ultimate spread | Up to 4m (13.5ft) depending on variety |
| Time to ultimate height | 5-10 years |
Can I drink elderflower everyday?
Elderflower is POSSIBLY UNSAFE when used in excessive amounts. Some parts of the elder tree contain a cyanide-producing chemical which can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Cooking removes this chemical.
What is the difference between elderberry and elderflower?
Elderflower and elderberries contain some of the same things since they both come from the same tree. Their difference is in how they interact with the body. The elderflower is commonly used as a flavoring in extract form. There are also other potential health benefits, but so far science has not confirmed this.
How do you make elderflower tea?
How to make the tea with dried elderflowers?
- You will need about two teaspoons of dried petals per cup of tea.
- Place them in a small pot or teapot.
- Pour boiling water over them.
- Let steep for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain into cups.
- Add lemon juice and honey to taste.
