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.

More on growing elders:

Plant calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Plantyesyesyes
Flowersyesyes
Fruitsyesyes
Take cuttingsyesyesyes

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
Plants that go well with Sambucus 'Black Lace'
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