Elder twig, greenish or grey with opposite buds. The young green twigs are covered in small bumps known as lenticels>

ELDER Sambucus nigra

Elder is found throughout the forest especially on Dog Kennel Hill and on the slopes of Lambourne Wood at the back of the golf course where there used to be Badger setts. It is also associated with Rabbit warrens. It is a shrub, and in old bushes there may be several branches arising from the base each with gnarled bark.  The compound pinnate leaf has 5 - 7 leaflets although some authorities state up to eleven. Although the resting bud has several scales, the developing leaves are often projecting out of the bud, i.e. partly naked. The stem is also covered in raised cork-like bumps or lenticels which allow for gaseous exchanges. A large area within the twigs contains pith a very light substance, although the wood itself is very hard. The flowers are scented but contain no nectar, and consequently have few insect visitors. The flowers are fruit are favourites with wine makers, and the fruit are used in hedgerow jam.