Sambucus Nigra 'Black Lace'

Common Name:
Black Lace Elderberry

Description:
Sambucus nigra ‘Black Lace’ is a striking ornamental deciduous shrub admired for its deeply cut, purple-black foliage that gives a refined, almost lace-like effect, reminiscent of a Japanese maple. In early summer, large clusters of fragrant pale pink to creamy-pink flowers appear, creating a beautiful contrast against the dark leaves. These blossoms often mature into small dark purple-black berries in late summer to autumn, which are highly attractive to birds. It is a hardy and adaptable shrub that performs well in a range of soil types, preferring moist but well-drained conditions. Full sun produces the deepest leaf colour, while part shade is beneficial in hotter climates to prevent leaf scorch. This plant provides interest across the seasons, with spring and summer flowers, autumn berries, and rich foliage colour throughout the growing season.

Form:
• Shrub – Medium

Mature Size:
• Height: approximately 2.5 – 4 m
• Width/Spread: approximately 2.5 – 4 m

Aspect:
• Full Sun
• Part Shade

Flowering:
• Flowers in Summer

Flower Colour:
• Pale pink to creamy-pink

Key Attributes:
• Suitable for Pots
• Disease Resistant
• Scented Flowers
• Bird Attracting
• Perennial
• Fast Growing
• Dramatic Foliage

Toxicity:
All green parts of the plant, including leaves, stems, and raw berries, contain cyanogenic glycosides and can be toxic if consumed raw. Berries should only be eaten when fully ripe and cooked.

Companion Plants:
• Dogwoods (Cornus spp.)
• Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa)

This cultivar is grown by Flemings Nurseries, one of Australia's most renowned growers.
Image used with permission from Fleming’s Nurseries.

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