Sambucus

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Sambucus (elders; family Caprifoliaceae) A genus of deciduous trees, shrubs, and a few herbs that have opposite, pinnate leaves and a large stem pith. The flowers are in umbel- or panicle-like clusters, and usually have a 5-lobed corolla, and 5 stamens. The ovary is 3–5-celled and ripens to a berry-like drupe in the fruit. The fruits of S. nigra are edible, and they and the flowers can be made into wine. There are about 20 species, widespread in temperate and tropical regions, but absent from central and southern Africa.