We thought this elderberry looked like something out of a Dr. Seuse book, so we ordered some for the nursery and some for you. Elderberry plants are beautiful, but traditional varieties take up a lot of space, this culitvar is unique because it keeps a very narrow upright habit that makes it quite useful in a variety of settings as a vertical accent. The feathery black foliage of this plant falls off straight stems that keep it in a narrow column. Early summer brings hundereds of pink flowers that pop all over the dark purple leaves. It's such an interesting and exotic looking plant you'll have your neighbors thinking you're growing something from the rainforest. This cultivar will grow berries, but does require cross-pollination from another variety to do so. 

General care for any tree or shrub is easy, but like any living thing will require your attention. Please educate yourself and follow these simple rules.

Black Lace® Elderberry

Elderberry is easy to care for, but does suffer from a few challenges if not sited appropriately. It doesn't tollerate high heat, so check the zone information before commiting. In climates that are hot or that can get very hot stretches we recommend siteing in a location with some afternoon shade to avoid stress. Aphids can also be a problem for this plant. Options for dealing with them include using other preferred aphid hosts in the landscaping, planting in a site where the aphids are explosed to wind and making sure that soil quality and water needs of the plant are met. Aphids prey more heavily on plants that are stressed and so large aphid populations are typically a sign of poor soil, inadequate nutrients, or planting in a location that is too sheltered.