What Is Elderflower?
Elderflower consists of broad clusters of small, white-cream flowers that bloom in late spring on the elder tree or shrub (Sambucus nigra). It grows naturally in many parts of Europe and Anatolia.
The flowers stay fresh only briefly after blooming, so the harvest season is limited to May–June. Their aroma has rich floral and honey notes, and their flavor is mildly sweet.
Elderflower Nutrition Facts
One hundred grams of dried elderflower provides approximately 40 kcal of energy and trace amounts of vitamin C. When made into syrup, its calorie content increases substantially because of the added sugar. Values are approximate.
How Should Elderflower Be Consumed?
Elderflower is consumed in moderate amounts as part of a balanced diet, as a flavoring for tea and syrup.
This is general information; elderflower is a food and is not a medical treatment. Because the raw berries and other green parts of the elder plant contain different compounds, only the flowers should be considered for this use.
How to Choose Elderflower
Good elderflower is white-cream (not darkened), has a rich, fresh floral aroma, and has not shed its pollen. Yellowed or browned flowers have lost their freshness.
- It should be white-cream and not darkened.
- It should have a rich, fresh floral aroma.
- For a fresh harvest, the stems should be green and fresh.
How to Store Elderflower
Dried elderflower can be stored for months in a sealed container in a cool, dark place. Fresh flowers should be processed soon after harvesting because they wilt and darken quickly.
Using Elderflower in the Kitchen
Elderflower is most often used to make syrup or cordial (boiled with sugar, lemon, and water, then strained), in herbal tea, and in some cocktail and sherbet recipes.
How Is Elderflower Syrup Made?
Fresh flowers are added to boiling sugar syrup and left to steep for several hours to overnight; they are then strained, lemon juice is added, and the syrup is bottled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Elderflowers and Elderberries Used in the Same Way?
No. The flowers and ripe berries are used in different recipes. The berries are generally used for jam and syrup, while the flowers are more often used for cordial and tea.
Can Elderflowers Be Foraged at Home?
Yes. Elderflowers growing in the wild can be gathered, but it is recommended to pick fully open flowers from clean areas away from traffic and pollution.
Is Elderflower Available in Türkiye?
Dried elderflower may be available from herbalists and spice shops; it also grows naturally in some regions.