Formonthills - Elderflower Traditional Cache

Formonthills is a young woodland with lots to offer.  A total of 80,000 trees have been planted with the help of the local community, with wildflower meadows, wetland areas, abundant wildlife, several circular walks, and a commanding position offering spectacular views.  Don't forget to look out for sculptures along the way.  A mix of hard path and grass tracks take you on an exploration of this hillside with excellent views.  

Sambucus nigra to give its official name.

Sometimes called the Elder or the Elderberry.   It looks more like a multi stemmed shrub than a tree and is found in hedgerows or sheltering in mature woods.   The delicate white flowers grow in thick clusters giving off a distinct scent and last just a few days.  The flowers should be collected just as the flower opens to reveal the fresh pollen, early morning is best.  It flowers in  profusion during June to July. They are widely used for flavouring cordials and fizzy drinks and can be fermented into a white wine.

These flowers are replaced later in the year by similar shaped bunches of tiny black elderberries.  These are also edible and can be cooked or made into a deep red wine.

However in their green state the berries are poisonous.