Water
Sambucus javanica prefers consistently moist soil. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. In hot, dry weather, increase watering frequency.
Ensure good drainage in containers.
Sambucus javanica, the Chinese elder, is a shrub native to Asia known for its clusters of white flowers followed by dark berries. It has a history of use in traditional m
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering.
Regular watering
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
Loam, Sandy loam, Clay loam
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 15-25°C. Protect from extreme heat and frost.
Moderate feeding
50% intensity
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release formula.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Sambucus javanica prefers consistently moist soil. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. In hot, dry weather, increase watering frequency.
Ensure good drainage in containers.
Prune Sambucus javanica in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pruning helps maintain shape, promotes flowering, and can be used to control size.
Light pruning can also be done after flowering.
Sambucus javanica can be propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer or hardwood cuttings taken in winter. Cuttings should be 10-15 cm long and placed in moist, well-draining rooting medium.
Rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Repot young Sambucus javanica plants annually in spring to refresh the soil and provide more space. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Ensure the new pot is only slightly larger than the current one.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Chinese Elder (Sambucus javanica)
Where Chinese Elder (Sambucus javanica) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Viburnaceae |
| Genus | Sambucus |
| Species | Sambucus javanica |
Similar in genus Sambucus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data