Overview
Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' is a bushy deciduous shrub in the genus Sambucus, part of the Viburnaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 6 m tall. Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include ornamental, hedge and privacy screen. It is native to Europe.
About
Sambucus nigra is a temperate species of tree or shrub in the family Viburnaceae native to the Azores, Europe, and the Middle East. Common names include elder, elderberry, black elder, European elder, European elderberry, and European black elderberry.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Sambucus nigra
About the genus
Sambucus is a genus of between 20 and 30 species of flowering plants in the family Viburnaceae. The various species are commonly referred to as elder, with the flowers as elderflower, and the fruit as elderberry.
Wikipedia contributors, "Sambucus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Sambucus
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Sambucus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- deciduous shrub
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 6 m
- Suggested uses
- ornamental, hedge, privacy screen
- Native to
- Europe
- Toxicity
- Berries and other parts are toxic if consumed raw.
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace'
- Cultivation
- Prefers moist, well-drained soil; tolerates a range of soil types; plant in full sun for best foliage color.
- Pruning
- Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
- Propagation
- Propagation by softwood cuttings in summer or by seed.
- Pest resistance
- Aphids, Glasshouse red spider mite
- Disease resistance
- Verticillium wilt, Honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace'?
Prefers moist, well-drained soil; tolerates a range of soil types; plant in full sun for best foliage color.
Where is the best place to plant Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace'?
Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' need?
Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace'?
Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
How big does Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' grow?
Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' reaches a height of 6 m.
Is Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' hardy in the UK?
Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace'?
Propagation by softwood cuttings in summer or by seed.
Is Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' toxic?
Berries and other parts are toxic if consumed raw.