The Story
Plant Bio
An upright, columnar elderberry with striking, deeply dissected, dark purple-black foliage. Produces flat-topped clusters of pink flowers in early summer followed by black berries.
Its narrow, upright habit makes it suitable for smaller gardens or as a vertical accent. The dark foliage provides dramatic color from spring to fall.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
84 inches
Width
40 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial shrub
Native To
Europe, Asia, North Africa
Toxicity
Raw berries, leaves, stems, and roots are toxic.
Bloom period
Late spring – Early summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote root growth.
- Plant in well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade.
- Water consistently, especially during dry periods, for healthy growth.
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead wood.
Pro Tip
Use organic compost to enrich soil and encourage lush foliage.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Prune to shape and remove dead branches ❌
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Don't
- Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
- Don't prune in late summer or fall to prevent sap bleeding
- Avoid planting in poorly drained areas
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
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Black Tower Elderberry questions
What zones can Black Tower Elderberry grow in?
Black Tower Elderberry is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Black Tower Elderberry deer resistant?
Yes — Black Tower Elderberry is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Black Tower Elderberry bloom?
Black Tower 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 Tower Elderberry need full sun?
Black Tower Elderberry does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Sambucus to compare
Black Lace Elderberry
Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace'
Laced Up Elderberry
Sambucus nigra 'Laced Up'
Korsor Black Elderberry
Sambucus nigra 'Korsor'
Thundercloud Elderberry
Sambucus nigra 'Thundercloud'
American Elderberry
Sambucus canadensis
Lemony Lace Elderberry
Sambucus racemosa 'Lemony Lace'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Black Tower 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.