Sambucus Black Lace

Sambucus Black Lace

Sambucus nigra Black Lace

Sambucus nigra Black Lace, has very finely cut, almost black foliage, which is the perfect foil to the pink-flushed blooms. This is followed by a show of red-black elderberries. In autumn, its leaves colour to a red. Pruning the plants back to ground level every year in early spring may lose the ability to bear a crop of flowers and fruit, but gives the best show of lustrous black leaves. This also helps keep it’s growth in check.

Sambucus nigra ‘Black Lace’, commonly known as Black Lace elderberry, is a stunning ornamental shrub that adds a touch of drama and elegance to any garden or  landscape planting. With its striking dark purple foliage and delicate pink blooms, this plant offers a unique and eye-catching presence that can be appreciated throughout the growing season.

One of the most captivating features of Black Lace elderberry is its foliage. The deeply cut, lace-like leaves emerge in shades of deep burgundy and mature to a rich, almost black hue, providing a dramatic backdrop for the plant’s other attributes. The foliage maintains its dark coloration throughout the summer months, adding depth and contrast to garden beds and borders.

In late spring to early summer, Black Lace elderberry produces clusters of tiny pink flowers that contrast beautifully against the dark foliage. These fragrant blooms attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making the plant not only visually appealing but also beneficial to the surrounding ecosystem. Once the flowers have finished blooming, they give way to clusters of dark purple berries in late summer to early fall. These berries are not only ornamental but also edible and can be used to make jams, jellies, syrups, and even wine, adding a delightful culinary element to the garden.

Beyond its aesthetic and culinary appeal, Black Lace elderberry is also valued for its ease of care and versatility in the landscape. This deciduous shrub is relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, as long as they are well-drained. It prefers full sun to partial shade but can tolerate some shade, especially in hotter climates. Once established, Black Lace elderberry is drought-tolerant and relatively resistant to pests and diseases, making it a resilient and reliable addition to the garden.

In terms of landscaping, Black Lace elderberry offers numerous possibilities for incorporating texture, color, and visual interest into garden designs. Its upright, arching habit makes it well-suited for use as a focal point or specimen plant in mixed borders or perennial beds. Planted en masse, it can create a bold statement or serve as a striking backdrop for other flowering perennials and ornamental grasses. Additionally, Black Lace elderberry can be grown in containers on patios or decks, providing a dramatic accent to outdoor living spaces.

Despite its many virtues, it’s essential to note that Black Lace elderberry is not without its considerations. While the berries are edible when fully ripe, they can be toxic if consumed in large quantities when unripe, so caution should be exercised, especially in households with children or pets. Additionally, the plant can spread via suckering, so regular pruning may be necessary to maintain its desired size and shape and prevent it from becoming invasive.

In conclusion, Sambucus nigra ‘Black Lace’ is a captivating garden plant that offers a unique combination of beauty, versatility, and practicality. From its dark purple foliage and delicate pink blooms to its edible berries and ease of care, this ornamental shrub has much to offer gardeners seeking to add drama and elegance to their outdoor spaces. Whether used as a focal point in a mixed border, as a backdrop for other plants, or in containers on a patio, Black Lace elderberry is sure to make a striking impression and bring enjoyment to any garden setting.