The eider is a small but bountiful tree, covered with edible fragrant blossoms in summer and juicy purple berries in autumn which country people have used for centuries in jams, jellies, medicinal syrups and wine. Its hollow branches have proved useful for all manner of pipes and bellows; in fact, its name probably originates with the Anglo-Saxon _eller, meaning a kindler of fire. In Ireland elder was a sacred tree, and it was forbidden to break even one twig.
Using elder for UP reeds has come up here several times (do a Search on this forum). What was your intention for opening this particular thread? 
djm
The link has some interesting history… 
I found it interesting.
The link mentions the rowan tree which has much more folklore surrounding it. In fact, it’s considered very bad luck if a rowan tree falls on your car (OK, I stole that from the Big Yin).
I thought the eider was a duck. Shows how much I know.
TBP, sorry, I just wasn’t sure of the why. I guess I was looking too hard.
djm
I’m an elder… 
Slán Go Foill
Uilliam
How are your edler berries? 
Ducks with berries?
djm
Do you kinow how to get down from an elephant.???
you don’t you get down from a duck.