Sambucus pendula

Sambucus pendula, commonly known as the weeping elder, is a graceful deciduous shrub distinguished by its arching, pendulous branches. While primarily celebrated for its ornamental beauty in landscapes, this species belongs to the elderberry family, traditionally valued in various cultures for its unique botanical characteristics and potential medicinal properties.

  • Scientific name: Sambucus pendula
  • Family: Viburnaceae
  • Native range: Asia-Temperate

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta, placing it within the class Equisetopsida and subclass Magnoliidae. It is further classified under the order Dipsacales and the family Viburnaceae. Finally, it is identified by the genus Sambucus, specifically as the species Sambucus pendula.

Rank Classification Source
Kingdom Plantae WCVP
Phylum Streptophyta WCVP
Class Equisetopsida WCVP
Subclass Magnoliidae WCVP
Order Dipsacales WCVP
Family Viburnaceae WCVP
Genus Sambucus WCVP

Common Names

This plant, known scientifically as Sambucus pendula, is recognized by various common names depending on the region and language. In English, it is frequently referred to as the weeping elder, reflecting its distinctive drooping branches. In German, it is known as die hängende Holunder, and in French, it is called le sureau pleureur. Furthermore, in Dutch, it is called de hangende vlier, and in Spanish, it is commonly called el saúco llorón.
Language Common Name Source

Distribution

This plant possesses a very specific and limited geographical range. Within the vast region of Eastern Asia, its presence is quite localized. Specifically, the species can be found growing in the territory of Korea. This indicates that its natural habitat is restricted to this particular part of the continent. Consequently, the distribution of Sambucus pendula is characterized by this single, distinct location.

Region Area Source
Eastern Asia Korea WCVP

Plant Parts

This plant, Sambucus pendula, is characterized by its distinctive foliage, specifically its large, pinnately compound leaves. These leaves are composed of several pairs of opposite leaflets that create a lush, spreading canopy, contributing to the plant's pendulous and weeping growth habit. In a medicinal context, while various parts of the Sambucus genus are often studied, the leaves of such species are integral to the plant's overall biological structure and its ability to photosynthesize and support its medicinal properties.
Total parts
1
Scientific sources
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Plant Part Sources Confidence
leaves 1 ★☆☆☆☆