Elder is a shrub of woodland edge, hedgerows and grassland scrub, but also be found on waste ground, in cemeteries and even on rubbish tips. It prefers rich, fertilised soils, so is a common sight in urban areas and cultivated ground. Despite its reputation as a bad-smelling, opportunistic ‘weed’, Elder is regularly used as food – the autumn berries and spring flowers can both be eaten (the latter sometimes battered and fried) or the blossom can be used to make the popular elderflower cordial.