About
A deciduous shrub to 3m with very deeply dissected purplish-black foliage from spring to autumn, giving a characteristic lacy effect. Flat umbels of tiny pinkish flowers are borne abundantly in summer and have the characteristic grape scent of elder flowers. Purple-black berries may follow. The fruit and flowers may be used for flavouring drinks and in cooking.
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, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFlower
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, fruit/flowers edible if cooked. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs, cats): Harmful if eaten, fruit/flowers edible if cooked - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationEasy to grow in moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soils in full sun or part shade, and also thrives on extremely chalky sites. Best leaf colour in full sun
PruningPruning group 1. Will tolerate hard pruning to restrict the size; can be maintained as small shrub if desired
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings in early summer or hardwood cuttings in winter
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids and glasshouse red spider mite
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to verticillium wilt and honey fungus