Myths, Folklore & Symbolism: Elder

Elder: a bush or tree with white, fragrant blossoms and violet-black fruits, it was valued in antiquity as a medicinal plant; touching the elder was considered effective to transfer the disease to the plant. Additionally, the elder was used as a prophylactic against magicians and witches. Cutting down or burning the elder was believed to bring misfortune or death. Because Judas was supposed to have hanged himself on an elder tree, the elder was associated with the Devil." (Herder)