Black Lace Elderberry
Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
96 inches
Width
96 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7
Water
Moderate, prefers moist soil
Humidity
Average garden humidity
Lifespan
10+ years
Native To
Europe
Toxicity
Berries are mildly toxic if raw; cooking neutralizes toxins
The Story
Plant Bio
Black Lace is known for its deeply cut, black-purple foliage and clusters of pink flowers, which contrast beautifully. This cultivar is distinguished by its striking lace-like leaves and has a unique color compared to other Sambucus species.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck young plants into well-drained soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring and midsummer.
- Prune in late winter to shape and remove dead or crossing branches.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Transplant in early spring or fall for best results.
Pro Tip
Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 💧
- Prune annually to maintain shape ✂️
- Use organic mulch to conserve moisture 🌱
- Monitor for pests regularly 🐞
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late summer or fall ❌
- Never ignore signs of pests or disease ❌
- Don’t plant in poorly drained soil ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Black Lace Elderberry questions
What zones can Black Lace Elderberry grow in?
Black 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 Black Lace Elderberry deer resistant?
Yes — Black Lace Elderberry is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Black Lace Elderberry bloom?
Black Lace Elderberry typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Black Lace Elderberry need full sun?
Black Lace Elderberry does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Sambucus to compare
Korsor Black Elderberry
Sambucus nigra 'Korsor'
Thundercloud Elderberry
Sambucus nigra 'Thundercloud'
Black Tower Elderberry
Sambucus nigra 'Black Tower'
Laced Up Elderberry
Sambucus nigra 'Laced Up'
European Elder
Sambucus nigrum
American Elderberry
Sambucus canadensis
Keep exploring
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Black 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.
