About
An upright, bushy, deciduous shrub with deep purple/red divided, pinnate leaves, from spring to autumn, with dark purple stem colour. Frothy panicles of tiny, scented, pink flowers in summer are followed by round, glossy, black fruit.
About the genus
Sambucus can be herbaceous perennials, deciduous shrubs or small trees, with pinnate leaves and umbels or panicles of small creamy-white flowers followed by red, white or black berries
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral, Alkaline
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFlower
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs, cats): Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationWill grow in any moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil. Thrives on very chalky soil
PruningPruning group 1, or suitable for coppicing every three to four years to restrict size and improve foliage display
PropagationPropagate by softwood or hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids and glasshouse red spider mite
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to verticillium wilt and honey fungus