By Charles Teter
Circleville
As one travels the highways and back roads of Pendleton County, you can see a large bush with cup size white blooms growing, especially along the road.
The best time to see them is during June and July. It is the elderberry bush blooming. This bush has been around for centuries and one good elderberry bush would keep a family of four in jams and jellies for a year.
Several things could be made from an elderberry bush:
- Buggy whips
- Indians called it the tree of music and made flutes out of it
- A black dye
- Different types of jellies, tea, and pies as well as many other types of foods
Now through July, the bloom is white. Then in August, it will turn to a purplish berry. It’s fun to go out with the family and find the elderberry. Take a red ribbon and mark the bush when it is found. Then in August, go back with a cup or small bucket and pick the berries.
Don’t put it off because the birds love them and before you know it, the berries will be gone.
I am sure Facebook talks about elderberry and one can find the different edible foods and drinks you can make to entertain the family. Ask your grandmother or grandfather and they will tell you about the elderberry.
