Sambucus nigra ‘Black Lace’ Elderberry

Extremely ornamental and useful, no edible garden should be without one. Lacy deep purple foliage resembles a lace leaf Japanese maple. Stems and tips sometimes take on a chartreuse color contrasting nicely with the purple black foliage. Fragrant 6” pink lace-cap flowers look lovely set against the dark foliage, much to the delight of bees and butterflies. Black edible and medicinal berries follow the flowers. They make delicious syrup, jams, juice and wine or can be left for wildlife to enjoy. The berries are one of the highest sources of health promoting anti-oxidants, polyphenols and anthocyanins and are anti-viral and immune boosting powerhouses. Cold hardy, easy to grow and adaptable, black elderberry bushes can be planted where Japanese maples may fail. Please note all Black Elderberries must be cooked before use. Please refer to my article HERE for more info and a recipe. I usually only prune every 3rd year as needed for best fruit set. Zone 3-8 6-8’ tall and wide prefers part to full sun.