What is the preferred growing condition for Sambucus javanica?
Sambucus javanica thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. It is relatively adaptable to various soil types.
Chinese Elder (Sambucus javanica)
Sambucus javanica, the Chinese elder, is a fast-growing shrub or small tree native to East Asia, known for its white flowers and edible berries.
Above information is sourced from Wikipedia
Sunlight
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Watering
Consistent Moisture
Soil
Loam, Sandy, Clay
Temperature
Hardy
Habitat
Outdoor
Fertilizer
Moderate
Care Requirements
Light
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Prefers full sun for best flowering and fruiting, tolerates partial shade.
Watering
Consistent Moisture
Keep soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged.
Soil
Loam, Sandy, Clay
Temperature
Hardy
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures; hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Habitat
Outdoor
Fertilizer
Moderate
Benefits from annual feeding in spring.
Plant Overview
Plant Type
Shrub, Tree
Plant Category
Foliage, Fruit
Plant Place Type
Garden, Pot
Plant Environment
Outdoor
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Height
2-5 m
Spread
2-5 m
Growth Rate
Fast
Dormancy
Yes
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Compound
Flower Size
10-20 cm
Optimal Sunlight Lux
60000
Image Gallery
Flowering & Fruiting Cycles
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Northern hemisphere
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Peak bloom · JunPeak fruit · Aug
FloweringFruiting
Southern hemisphere
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Peak bloom · JulPeak fruit · Aug
FloweringFruiting
Synonyms
Ebulum javanicum (Reinw. ex Blume) Hosok.
Taxonomy
- kingdomPlantae
- divisionTracheophyta
- classMagnoliopsida
- orderDipsacales
- familyViburnaceae
- genusSambucus
- speciesSambucus javanica
Toxicity
Toxic for humans
No
Rating: 0/5
Toxic for pets
No
Rating: 0/5
Edible
Yes
Non-toxic
Additional Care Tips
Sambucus javanica prefers consistently moist soil, especially during its establishment phase and in warmer months. Water deeply when the top few centimeters of soil feel dry. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot. Reduce watering frequency in cooler, dormant periods.
Prune Sambucus javanica in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pruning can also be used to maintain desired size and shape, and to encourage bushier growth. Hard pruning can rejuvenate older plants.
Sambucus javanica can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken in mid-summer also root well. Alternatively, seeds can be sown in autumn, but may require stratification for germination. Division of suckers in spring is also effective.
Repotting is generally not a primary concern for Sambucus javanica as it is typically grown outdoors as a shrub. If grown in a container, repot every 2-3 years in early spring before growth starts, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix.
FAQs
Are the berries of Sambucus javanica safe to eat?
The berries of Sambucus javanica are generally considered edible when cooked, similar to other elderberry species. However, raw berries may cause digestive upset.
How large does Sambucus javanica typically grow?
Sambucus javanica can grow into a large shrub or small tree, typically reaching heights of 3 to 5 meters.
When does Sambucus javanica bloom?
Sambucus javanica usually flowers in late spring to early summer, producing clusters of fragrant white flowers.
Is Sambucus javanica suitable for cold climates?
Sambucus javanica is generally considered to be hardy in USDA zones 7-10. It may benefit from protection in colder regions.