Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace'

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Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace'

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ElderTree, DeciduousFamily: Caprifoliaceae

Height: 6mSpread: 6m
Hardy

Attractive to wildlife

Flower colour:

Pink

Foliage colour:

Black

Purple

Position

Sun Exposure:

Full sun

Aspect:

South facing, west facing

Position in Border:

Back, middle

Soil

Clay / Heavy / Moist / Well Drained / Light / Sandy

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Common elder, Sambucus nigra, bears sprays of tiny white flowers in early summer followed by small black fruit which can be cooked and eaten, or used to make a refreshing summer drink.

Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' has very finely cut, almost black foliage, which is the perfect foil to the pink-flushed blooms, which are followed by red-black elderberries. In autumn, its leaves turn a rich red. To produce the best coloured leaves, prune plants back to ground level every year in early spring (bear in mind this may be at the expense of flowers and fruit). It works well when planted on its own or as part of a hedge.

For best results, grow Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' in moist but well drained soil in full sun to partial shade. However, it will tolerate waterlogged or very chalky ground.

Buy Sambucus nigra from Crocus, Thompson & Morgan and Sarah Raven
Buy Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' from Crocus, Thompson & Morgan and Gardening Express

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Sambucus ‘Black lace’ and wildlife

Sambucus ‘Black lace’ is known for attracting bees, birds and other pollinators. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers, provides shelter and habitat and has seeds for birds.

Is known to attract Bees

Bees

Is not known to attract Beneficial insects

Beneficial insects

Is known to attract Birds

Birds

Is not known to attract Butterflies/Moths

Butterflies/Moths

Is known to attract Other pollinators

Other pollinators

Is Sambucus ‘Black lace’ poisonous?

Sambucus ‘Black lace’ has no toxic effects reported.

No reported toxicity to:

Is not known to attract Birds

Birds

Is not known to attract Cats

Cats

Is not known to attract Dogs

Dogs

Is not known to attract Horses

Horses

Is not known to attract Livestock

Livestock

Is not known to attract People

People