Sambucus nigra Black Lace 12lt

Sambucus nigra Black Lace

Why Buy Me?

• Distinct nearly black leaves
• Masses of white/pink flowers
• Easy to grow in any soil

Growing Conditions

Light:
Full sun to partial shade. Best foliage colour develops in full sun. In partial shade, leaves may appear more greenish-bronze. Tolerates a range of light conditions but flowers and colours are most intense with more light.

Soil:
Moist, well-drained soil. Adapts to a variety of soils including loamy, sandy, or clay types. Prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH. Avoid waterlogged or extremely dry soils.

Exposure:
Performs well in both sheltered and moderately exposed locations. Hardy, very cold-tolerant and wind-resistant. Thrives in urban, rural, and coastal settings.

Drought Tolerance:
Moderate. Requires regular watering to establish. Mature plants are relatively drought-tolerant but flower and foliage quality improve with consistent moisture.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Plant in spring or autumn when the soil is moist and workable. Ensure enough space for the plant to spread naturally.

Spacing:
Space 2–3 metres (6–10 feet) apart. Grows to a mature height and spread of 2.5–4 metres (8–13 feet). Can be pruned to maintain a smaller size or shrub form.

Watering & Fertilization:
Water regularly during dry spells, especially in the first growing season. Apply compost or a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote growth and flowering.

Mulching & Pruning:
Mulch in spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape, encourage new growth, and enhance foliage colour. Can be cut back hard for a more compact form and vivid leaf colour.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
Dark, finely cut, purple-black foliage emerges, providing a dramatic contrast to fresh spring greens. Clusters of pink, lemon-scented flowers bloom in late spring to early summer (May–June).

Summer:
Foliage remains dark and lacy, offering a bold, elegant texture. Flowers may be followed by dark red to black elderberries (if pollinated), which are attractive to birds and can be used for culinary purposes (cooked only).

Autumn:
Fruits (if present) ripen, and foliage may take on subtle bronze-red tones before leaf drop.

Winter:
Deciduous. Loses its leaves but maintains a strong, upright framework of dark stems that add structure to the winter garden.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Highly beneficial to wildlife. Flowers attract bees and pollinators. Fruits are eaten by birds. Also provides shelter for insects and small garden fauna.

Garden Use:
Excellent as a feature shrub or small tree in mixed borders, wildlife gardens, and contemporary landscapes. Can be used for informal hedging or as a dramatic backdrop plant. Suitable for containers when pruned regularly.

Companion Plants:
Pairs well with ornamental grasses, pale or silver foliage plants (e.g. Stachys, Artemisia), and flowering perennials like Geranium, Echinacea, and Nepeta. Contrasts beautifully with golden-leaved or chartreuse-foliage plants.