![Sambucus Cerulea or Blue Elderberry](https://i0.wp.com/www.urbanfarmhub.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/blue-elderberry-300x200.jpg?resize=300%2C200)
Elderberries can be planted in the garden soon. For consumption use the Blue or the Black Elderberries instead of the Red Elderberry.
![Freshly picked Elder Flowers](https://i0.wp.com/www.urbanfarmhub.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/IMG_5896.jpg?resize=300%2C232)
These fragrant white to pink flowers can be gathered, steeped, then the liquid sugared to make a delicious syrup. If you have the patience to wait, the dark blue berries can be gathered in the late summer to make into a dye, syrup or wine.
Here is a recipe for making a quart of syrup:
Ingredients:
- 30 elderflower heads
- 1 quart water
- 4 cups sugar
- Juice of 2 lemons or limes
- zest of 2 lemons or limes
- 2 tablespoons citric acid
- Zest the lemons or limes and put in a large bowl, then the citric acid and lemon or lime juice.
- Remove the flowers from the stalk and add to the bowl
![Flowers, citric acid, zest and lime juice](https://i0.wp.com/www.urbanfarmhub.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/DSC_4021.jpg?resize=300%2C200)
- Bring the sugar and water to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve.
- Pour the syrup into the bowl and stir to combine.
![Flowers, acids and sugar syrup](https://i0.wp.com/www.urbanfarmhub.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/DSC_4028.jpg?resize=300%2C200)
- Cover the bowl with a tea towel and let it sit for 2-4 days.
- Strain the mixture through a sieve lined with cheesecloth into a clean jar. Store in the fridge for up to six weeks.
![Here is what it looks like after steeping for a couple of days.](https://i0.wp.com/www.urbanfarmhub.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/DSC_4097.jpg?resize=300%2C239)
![Here is the strained syrup.](https://i0.wp.com/www.urbanfarmhub.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/DSC_4102.jpg?resize=240%2C300)
This syrup has a very delicate flavor and scent. It tastes good mixed with seltzer water or even better with some champagne or vodka.
Here’s more info on growing this useful plant!
Caution: Leaves, stems and unripe berries can cause stomach upset. Just use the cooked berries and flowers for consumption.
I'd love to hear from you!