Black Elder
What is a black elder tree?
The scientific name is Sambucus nigra. It is deciduous, and grows up to 20 feet tall. It is also known as the European elderberry.
In the spring to early summer, bunches of small white flowers burst open. If there are multiple trees, insects can cross-pollinate, which allows the berries to grow.
Berries ripen later in the summer, and can then be collected for uses in the kitchen, or left on the tree to feed birds, insects and other garden critters.
How would you describe the flowers?
Look at its leaves:
What shape are they?
Do they look smooth or rough?
How would you describe the veins?
Consider the bark:
What color is it?
What is the texture like?
Research more:
How do cooks use elderberries in the kitchen?
Why is elderberry so well-known in the winter?