Sambucus racemosa 'Lemony Lace'
shrubN. America Native

Lemony Lace Elderberry

Sambucus racemosa 'Lemony Lace'

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

60 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Medium-lived deciduous shrub

Native To

Species is native to North America

Toxicity

All parts except cooked berries are toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Sambucus racemosa, or Red Elderberry, is a deciduous shrub native to Europe, Asia, and North America, known for its pinnately compound leaves and clusters of spring flowers followed by red berries. Lemony Lace is a stunning cultivar featuring finely dissected, bright golden-chartreuse foliage that emerges with red tints. It produces white flower clusters in spring, which can lead to red berries in summer, providing a dramatic color and texture contrast.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesIts primary value is its stunning, finely-cut golden foliage, which provides a dramatic pop of color and texture from spring to fall. The red-tinted new growth adds another layer of interest.
Practical UsesThis fast-growing shrub can quickly fill a space, create an informal screen, or serve as a vibrant focal point in a mixed border.
Ecological BenefitsThe spring flowers support native bees and other pollinators. If berries form, they are a valuable food source for dozens of species of birds.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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<1 Gal Pot1+ Gal PotTrays
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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a site with moist, well-drained soil.
  2. Full sun provides the best color, but afternoon shade is beneficial.
  3. Dig a hole twice as wide as the container.
  4. Plant at the same depth it was growing in the pot.
  5. Backfill with soil and water in well.
  6. Mulch to keep the root zone cool and moist.

Pro Tip

For the best foliage color, provide at least six hours of sun, but offer some afternoon shade in hot climates to prevent leaf scorch.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
  • Prune immediately after flowering, as it blooms on old wood.
  • Provide good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.

Don't

  • Do not let the soil dry out completely, which can cause stress and leaf drop.
  • Avoid planting in heavy, poorly drained clay soil.
  • Do not prune in late fall or winter, as this will remove flower buds.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Brilliant foliage accentTextural specimen in mixed bordersEye-catching informal hedge

Companion Plants

Heuchera 'Palace Purple' Allium 'Globemaster' Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' Geranium 'Rozanne' Nepeta 'Walker's Low'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Lemony Lace Elderberry questions

What zones can Lemony Lace Elderberry grow in?

Lemony Lace Elderberry is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Lemony Lace Elderberry deer resistant?

Yes — Lemony Lace Elderberry is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Lemony Lace Elderberry bloom?

Lemony Lace Elderberry typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Lemony Lace Elderberry need full sun?

Lemony Lace Elderberry does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Lemony Lace Elderberry with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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