About
A bushy large shrub or small tree, up to 6m high, with pinnate leaves which open green, turn dark purple in summer, and finally red in autumn. Flowerheads in early summer, of pale pink flowers on dark pink stems, are followed by black fruits in late summer and early autumn.
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
Height4-8 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCoastal, 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 partial shade
PruningPruning group 1; for foliage colour can also be pruning group 7
PropagationPropagate by hardwood cuttings or semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids and glasshouse red spider mite
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to verticillium wilt and honey fungus