Sambucus 'Black Lace' (P) - Black Lace Elder

Sambucus 'Black Lace' (P)

Dramatic Foliage with Elegant, Lacy Appearance

Sambucus 'Black Lace' (P), commonly known as Black Lace Elder, is a striking deciduous shrub with deeply dissected, almost black, purple foliage that resembles the delicate lace of a Japanese maple. In early summer, it produces large clusters of tiny, pale pink flowers with a sweet lemon fragrance, followed by glossy, black elderberries in autumn. This plant adds dramatic visual interest to any garden with its unique foliage and attractive blooms.

Why Choose Sambucus 'Black Lace' (P)?

• Dramatic Foliage: Deeply cut, dark purple-black leaves create a stunning contrast in the garden.

• Elegant Flowers: Pale pink, lemon-scented flowers add a touch of elegance.

• Attractive Berries: Glossy, black elderberries provide additional autumn interest.

• Versatile Planting: Suitable for borders, hedges, and containers.

• Wildlife-Friendly: Attracts pollinators and provides food for birds.

Care Instructions

Light Requirements: Thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil. Tolerant of a range of soil types, including loam, clay, and sand.

Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells.

Fertiliser: Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy growth and flowering.

Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and promote vigorous new growth.

Planting Advice

• Spacing: Space plants approximately 1.5-2.5 meters apart to allow for healthy growth and air circulation.

• Planting Time: Best planted in autumn or spring.

• Propagation: Propagate by softwood cuttings in early summer or by hardwood cuttings in winter.

Plant Details

• Botanical Name: Sambucus 'Black Lace' (P)

• Common Name: Black Lace Elder

• Flower Colour: Pale pink

• Foliage Colour: Dark purple-black

• Mature Height: 3-4 meters

• Mature Spread: 2-3 meters

• Habit: Bushy, spreading

• Hardiness: Fully hardy (UK zones)

• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade

• Soil Acidity: Neutral to slightly acidic

• Soil Moisture: Moist but well-drained

• Life Cycle: Deciduous shrub

• Scented: Yes (flowers)

• Pollinator-Friendly: Yes

Where to Use Sambucus 'Black Lace' (P)

• Ideal for adding a dramatic focal point in borders and mixed planting schemes.

• Perfect for creating informal hedges or screening.

• Suitable for growing in large containers for a striking patio feature.

Sambucus 'Black Lace' (P) brings a touch of elegance and drama to any garden, with its unique foliage and beautiful blooms. Its versatility and wildlife-friendly attributes make it a standout choice for gardeners looking to add visual interest and ecological value to their outdoor spaces.