Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace'

• Delicate, almost black foliage adds drama to borders
• Contrasting white flowerheads appear in early summer
• Fully hardy, best in full sun but will tolerate part shade
• Dark fruits in autumn are attractive to birds
  

The black elder, Sambucus nigra ‘Black Lace’, will make its presence felt in any garden border from spring through to autumn. The delicate, deep purple (almost black) foliage that emerges each spring is adorned by contrasting, flattish, white flowerheads in early summer. Birds also take an interest in autumn when the dark fruits appear. It’s fully hardy and will increase in size to a height and spread of up to 3m, but can be kept in check by pruning.