Sambucus nigra
Elderberry
Coral Prosser
Watercolour
Artwork size in cm, 46 x 36
£560.00
The Elder tree is about 3m in height and breadth with pinnate leaves usually consisting of five or seven ovate, toothed leaflets. Creamy-white, flat umbels of flowers are borne in early summer, followed by very dark, purplish-black round berries. Like the Rowan, it has always been associated with magical powers. Rowans were planted at the front, and Elders near the backs of homesteads to ward off evil spirits.
It was believed that the cross on which Christ died was made of Elder wood and so farmers protected their livestock by placing crosses made of it on the doors of their stock-sheds. To cut down an Elder tree was considered to be courting bad luck. Every part of the tree was useful. The bark, leaves and berries produced grey, black, yellow, blue and purple dyes which were used by tweed producers. It also yielded many health remedies. The leaves became ointments for skin and minor inflammatory infections. The flowers were used for colds, skin rashes, headaches and bowel problems; the roots and bark for heart and kidney disorders; the berries for lung infections and also for wine which helped those with rheumatism and a plethora of other aches and pains.
If you would like to purchase a painting, please get in touch with info@botanicascotia.uk
Please note: Paintings will be on display at the V&A Dundee until the end of July, so a pickup after that date can be arranged.
