Anyone kind enough to tell me what this tree is...

[Tigertrees]

Well I think it's a tree. It's growing out of a hedge we have - I'm trying to decide whether to cut it or leave it to grow, but would be helpful to know more about what it is! Thank you

@MereDintofPandiculation - I suspect that you are correct in that the flowers have a different odour, depending upon one's perception; to me they smell very pungent and acidic, as does the bark and sap and, yes, although the flowers can be eaten in the form of fritters, that is one delicacy I will pass on!

Many superstions attached to Elder, some good, some bad - bad luck to bring it indoors or to burn the timber, but, on the other hand, growing near to a dwelling it is said to deter the devil and, like Rowan, also witches.

And, of course, it is beloved by blackfly and aphids, so I suppose, it could be used to lure those pests away from more desireable plants.

I agree that Cercis is another tree from which, legend has it, Judas hanged himself - one of many, who knows where the truth lies?

I am now very excited to have an elder tree (and have spotted what looks like another one sprouting up in another part of the garden) though I doubt my fantasies about wine and fritters will ever come to pass!

I agree that Cercis is another tree from which, legend has it, Judas hanged himself - one of many, who knows where the truth lies? I suppose the fact the the Cercis comes from S Europe/W Asia gives it a strong claim. I'm not sure how far south Sambucus nigra grows.