Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' – A Stunning Foliage and Flowering Shrub for Dramatic Garden Impact
Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace', commonly known as Black Elder or Black Lace Elderberry, is a stunning deciduous shrub that combines unique, deeply cut blackish-purple foliage with elegant clusters of fragrant pink flowers. Known for its dramatic appearance, Black Lace provides year-round interest, from its striking lace-like leaves to its fragrant blooms and ornamental berries. This versatile shrub is perfect for creating focal points in the garden, whether planted as a specimen, in borders, or as part of a mixed planting.
Why Grow Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace'?
Striking Foliage – The most notable feature of Black Lace is its stunning, almost black, finely dissected foliage. The deeply cut, dark purple to black leaves offer a lace-like texture that adds a dramatic contrast to lighter green plants in the garden. This foliage provides year-round visual appeal, particularly in the summer months when the leaves are at their fullest and richest.
Fragrant Pink Flowers – In early to mid-summer, Black Lace produces large, flat clusters of delicate pink flowers. These flowers are fragrant and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, adding both beauty and ecological value to your garden. The flowers also provide a soft contrast to the dark foliage, making them an eye-catching addition.
Ornamental Berries – After the flowers fade, Black Lace produces dark purple-black berries that are as visually appealing as they are functional. While the berries are primarily ornamental, they can be used in the making of elderflower syrups, jams, or wine when harvested properly.
Compact and Versatile Growth – Black Lace is a moderate-sized shrub, growing to around 2.5 to 3 meters (8 to 10 feet) tall with a similar spread. Its upright, bushy habit makes it suitable for a variety of garden styles, from formal to naturalistic plantings. It also works well in borders, woodland gardens, or as a specimen plant, where its striking appearance will become a focal point.
Height and Spread of Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace'
Black Lace typically grows to a height of 2.5 to 3 meters (8 to 10 feet) and spreads to a similar width, making it an ideal shrub for medium to large gardens. Its compact, bushy growth habit means it can be used effectively as a hedge, privacy screen, or ornamental shrub in various landscape settings.
Where to Site Your Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace'
Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' is adaptable to a range of growing conditions but thrives best in the following situations:
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Specimen Plant: Plant Black Lace as a specimen shrub where its dramatic foliage and striking flowers can be admired up close. Position it near patios, entryways, or along walkways to allow for full appreciation of its beauty.
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Mixed Borders: The dark, lace-like foliage of Black Lace pairs beautifully with other plants in mixed borders. Combine it with plants that have contrasting textures, such as ornamental grasses, or perennials with lighter green or silver foliage.
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Woodland Gardens: Black Lace is a great addition to woodland or shady gardens where it can add depth and texture. It will thrive in dappled sunlight and can help brighten up shaded areas with its bold foliage.
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Hedges or Screens: Use Black Lace in hedging or screening applications to provide privacy while creating a unique, decorative feature in the landscape.
How to Grow and Care for Your Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace'
Soil – Black Lace is adaptable to a variety of soil types, though it performs best in moist, well-drained, and moderately fertile soil. It can tolerate both slightly acidic and slightly alkaline conditions. While it will grow in dry soils, it benefits from consistent moisture, especially during hot, dry periods.
Light – Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' thrives in full sun to partial shade. For the best foliage color and flowering, plant it in full sun, where it will get at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. In shadier conditions, the plant may still grow, but its dark foliage may not be as intense, and flowering may be less abundant.
Watering – While Black Lace is somewhat drought-tolerant once established, it benefits from regular watering, particularly in dry spells. Ensure that the soil remains consistently moist during the growing season, especially when the shrub is actively growing and blooming. Water at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can promote fungal diseases.
Maintenance:
Pruning – Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' responds well to pruning, which helps maintain a tidy shape and promotes vigorous growth. Prune in early spring, before new growth begins, to remove any dead or damaged wood and to shape the plant. Light pruning after flowering can also help maintain a compact form. If desired, it can be cut back by one-third to rejuvenate the shrub and encourage fresh growth.
Mulching – Apply mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic mulch, such as bark or wood chips, is ideal for keeping the soil cool and damp during the growing season.
Pest & Disease Resistance – Black Lace is generally pest- and disease-resistant, though it can occasionally be susceptible to aphids, caterpillars, or powdery mildew. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of pests, and use organic pest control methods if needed. Good air circulation and proper spacing help prevent disease issues.
Perfect Plant Combinations
Ribes sanguineum 'Black Lace' pairs beautifully with a variety of plants in the garden:
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Perennials: Combine with perennials that have lighter foliage to provide contrast, such as Hostas, Astilbes, or Heuchera. The combination of textures will enhance the visual appeal of the plant and create a dynamic display.
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Ornamental Grasses: Pair with ornamental grasses like Pennisetum or Miscanthus for added texture and movement. The contrast between the dark foliage of Black Lace and the soft, feathery grass blades creates a sophisticated look.
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Flowering Shrubs: Black Lace looks stunning next to other flowering shrubs like Weigela, Spiraea, or Forsythia, where its unique foliage contrasts with the flowers and their colorful blooms.
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Evergreens: Pair with evergreen shrubs like Boxwood, Juniper, or Yew for a strong, contrasting backdrop. The evergreen plants will provide a year-round foundation, while Black Lace offers seasonal color and texture.
Conclusion
Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' is a stunning and versatile shrub that brings a dramatic touch to any garden. With its striking dark foliage, fragrant pink flowers, and ornamental berries, it offers year-round interest and visual appeal. Whether used as a specimen plant, in mixed borders, or as part of a hedge, Black Lace adds a bold and sophisticated look to your landscape. Low-maintenance and adaptable, this shrub is perfect for both beginner and experienced gardeners who want to make a statement with a unique and beautiful plant.
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