Common names

Elderberry Panax, Ornamental Ash, Elderberry Ash, Elderberry Panax Or Elderberry Ash.

Scientific names

Polyscias sambucifolia, Tieghemopanax sambucifolius.

Family

Araliaceae.

Genus

Polyscias.

Name origin

Polyscias, from Greek poly, many, and scias, canopy, umbel, referring to generally large umbels.

Rainfall

900mm.

Growth rate

Fast.

Growth height

Up to 5m.

Presence in Australia

Noted in Munderoo district. Probably also in similar country in surrounding areas.

This specie has been identified in the following Australian states: Qld, NSW, ACT, Vic, Tas.

Habitat

Wet or dry sclerophyll forest, open forest, woodland and rainforest. Moist gullies or sheltered slopes.

Habit

Tall shrub to small tree, to 5m high.

Site preference

Well-drained soils. Tolerates extended wet periods, and shade to semi-shade.

Characteristics

Highly variable appearance. Fast-growing.

Flowering

Yellow-green, Nov-Feb. Profuse, but rarely conspicuous.

Seed collection

When berries translucent steely-blue and edible.

Propagation

From seed or cuttings of firm young growth.

Regeneration

Suckering roots. May form dense colonies.

Land protection

Stabilises soils along gullies where it naturally occurs.

Ornamental

Excellent for shady moist gardens, indoor containers, and for quick-growing screens. Responds to pruning. Remove suckers at ground level.