Black Lace Elderberry
If you love the delicate look of a Japanese maple but want something a bit tougher and easier to grow, Black Lace™ Elderberry might be the perfect plant for you!
With its finely cut, deep purple-black foliage, this striking shrub brings dramatic color and texture to the garden all season long. From a distance, it even mimics the elegant, airy look of a Japanese maple without the fuss.
What Makes Black Lace™ So Special?
Black Lace™ isn’t just about foliage, it delivers interest from spring through fall:
- Spring blooms: Soft, creamy pink flowers appear and create a beautiful contrast against the dark leaves.
- Fall berries: These blooms are followed by rich, blackish-red berries that can be harvested for jams, jellies, juice or even elderberry wine.
- Wildlife appeal: If left on the plant, the berries will attract birds and other wildlife! Thankfully, deer tend to leave it alone.
It’s rare to find a plant that combines beauty & function quite like this one.
Growing Conditions & Care
One of the biggest advantages of Black Lace™ Elderberry is how adaptable and easy it is to grow.
Light
For the richest, darkest foliage color:
- Plant in full sun
- It can tolerate partial shade, but color may be less intense
Soil & Water
- Prefers moist, well-drained soil
- Tolerates both acidic and alkaline soils
- Can handle some dry conditions, but performs best with consistent moisture
Temperature & Hardiness
- Extremely cold hardy down to -30°F
- A reliable choice for a wide range of climates
Pruning & Maintenance
Black Lace™ can be as structured or as natural as you’d like.
- Natural growth: Can reach 6–8 feet tall if left unpruned
- Shaping: Prune annually to maintain size or create a more formal look
- Timing: Always prune right after flowering, since buds for next year form during the summer
For best results, apply a slow-release fertilizer for trees and shrubs in early spring, following label directions.
Design Ideas for Your Landscape
This versatile shrub works beautifully in many garden styles:
- Accent plant: Adds dramatic color to any landscape
- Hedge or screen: Plant in groups for a dense, eye-catching border
- Mixed beds: Pairs well with roses and perennials, adding contrast and texture
- Patios & entries: Makes a bold statement near outdoor living spaces
- Naturalized areas: Tough enough for roadside plantings or informal settings
It can even be grown in large containers for a striking patio feature.
Quick Plant Facts
- Exposure: Sun to partial shade
- Height: 72–96 inches (6–8 feet)
- Spacing: 48–60 inches
- Type: Deciduous shrub
Black Lace™ Elderberry brings together elegant, ornamental beauty and rugged, easy-care performance. Whether you’re looking to create a focal point, add depth to a garden bed or attract wildlife, this plant checks all the boxes.
If you’re ready to add something truly unique (and surprisingly low-maintenance) to your landscape, Black Lace™ is a stunning choice that won’t disappoint.