Overview
Sambucus nigra is a bushy shrubs in the genus Sambucus, part of the Viburnaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 4-8 metres tall and 2.5-4 metres wide, reaching full size in around 10-20 years. Sambucus nigra grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. It is low maintenance.
About
Sambucus nigra is a temperate species of tree or shrub in the family Viburnaceae native to the Azores, Europe, and the Middle East. It grows in a variety of conditions including both wet and dry fertile soils, primarily in sunny locations. The plant is widely grown as an ornamental shrub or small tree. Both the flowers and the berries have a long tradition of culinary use, primarily for cordial and wine. Mature plants reach roughly 4-8 metres tall and 2.5-4 metres wide, carrying deciduous foliage. In the garden it prefers full sun and partial shade and most soil types. It tolerates soil of any pH, moist but well-drained conditions and south-facing, north-facing, east-facing and west-facing aspects.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Sambucus nigra
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Sambucus
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
Plant details
Sambucus nigra size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 4-8 metres
- Spread
- 2.5-4 metres
- Time to full height
- 10-20 years
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Sambucus nigra?
Sambucus nigra prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Sambucus nigra need?
Sambucus nigra is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How big does Sambucus nigra grow?
Sambucus nigra reaches a height of 4-8 metres and a spread of 2.5-4 metres. It takes around 10-20 years to reach full size.
