Black Lace Elderberry.
A plant that everyone should consider for their garden.
Have a container that needs a really dynamic plant in it? How about a densely shaded area or a hot, sunny location that needs sprucing up? Black lace elderberry is a unique plant that will grow in just about any condition.
Intense purple black foliage is finely cut, giving it an effect similar to that of Japanese maple. Indeed, some designers are using it in place of the more sensitive acer varieties since BLACK LACE™ is extremely durable and adaptable. Creamy pink flowers in spring contrast nicely with the dark leaves. They are followed by blackish red fall berries which can be harvested for making elderberry wine and jam, or left on the plant to attract birds and other wildlife (yet it seems unbothered by the deer).
BLACK LACE™ is very cold hardy and easy to grow, and adaptable to most sites. Full sun is needed for the best color. It can be used as a dramatic accent plant, planted en masse for a trouble free high hedge, or incorporated into the mixed or perennial border. Left alone it will reach up to 8 feet in height, but BLACK LACE™ can also be pruned back each year to fit into more formal settings. Black lace elderberry makes a great backdrop for roses, adds color and texture to a perennial bed and sets off patios and entries nicely
Best in moist soil although will tolerate dry soils. Thrives under acid or alkaline soils. Best if pruned immediately after blooming. Plants set flower buds the summer prior to blooming. Best with high moisture. Deciduous shrub. Fertilize in early spring by applying a slow release fertilizer specialized for trees and shrubs. Follow the recommended rate of application.
It isn’t very often that you come across such a beautiful plant with such diverse uses, so add a little romance to your garden and plant one today.
Exposure
Plant in sun or partial shade
Height
72-96"
Spacing
48-60"
Hardy Temp
-30°F (-34°C)
Uses
Great as a shrub in the landscape or as a potted shrub on the patio. Good in groupings or masses, or perennial and shrub borders. Makes a nice specimen or screen. Tough enough for roadsides or naturalizing. Good in wet soils.
Features
Pink flowers in early summer with lacy foliage that is similar to Japanese Maple. Bears blackish, red berries in the fall. Berries are edible and good for jellies, pies, juice and wine. Attractive to birds.
Awards Won
2006 - Top New Variety
-ANLA Management Clinic
2006 - Best New Variety
-ANLA Management Clinic
2006 - Excellent Rating
-Massachussetts Horticultural Society
2005 - 12 New Shrubs
-People, Places and Plants
2005 - Top Pick
-Garden Gate Magazine