Image 1 of 3

Public Plant Profile

Black Lace® Elderberry

Sambucus nigra 'Eva' (Black Lace®)

Category: Deciduous Shrub • Elderberry

Discover the striking Black Lace® Elderberry, perfect for specimen planting and attracting pollinators.

Request Consultation Browse All Plants

Mature Height: 5-6 feet

Mature Width: 4-6 feet

Bloom Color: Pink

Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer

Light: Sun

Zone: Zones 4-8

Maintenance: Moderate

Growth Rate: Moderate

Season of Interest: Multi-season

Foliage: Deciduous

Community Photos

Upload some of your best photos for this plant by clicking below.

Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Black Lace® Elderberry is a striking deciduous shrub known for its dark, lacy foliage and clusters of pink flowers. It produces dark berries that attract wildlife and can be used in jams and jellies.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Prefers moist, well-drained soil.

Soil Preferences

Requires good drainage and moderate moisture. Tolerates a range of pH levels and soil types.

Sun Needs

Sun

Watering Needs

Water regularly, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Pruning Notes

Prune in late winter to early spring to maintain shape and encourage new growth.

Fertilizing Notes

Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth.

Common Issues

Watch for aphids and powdery mildew; ensure good air circulation to prevent disease.

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

specimenaccentpollinator garden

Special Features

Deeply cut foliageattractive flowersand berries.

Wildlife Value

Attracts pollinators and provides habitat for birds.

Resistance / Tolerance

Moderate drought tolerance.

Notes from Our Designer

Great for adding texture and contrast in gardens. Can be used to attract wildlife.

Related Plants

See How Similar Plants Are Used in Real Landscapes

Explore related plants, compare shape, texture, and overall planting style, and get a better feel for what may fit your own outdoor space.

Design Ideas Using This Plant

Use this page to get a feel for where Black Lace® Elderberry may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

What Clients Say

★★★★★

“We did a complete overhaul of our landscaping after moving into our new home. We removed bushes, a tree, several plants and built 2 retaining walls. Bold Outdoors spent a lot of time talking with us about what we wanted…”

Natalie K.

★★★★★

“I have had great experiences with Bold Outdoors. Josh designed our home's landscaping and has been a valued partner for the past 7 years as we have added to and maintained our home's landscaping. I would highly…”

Bill C.

Helpful Next Steps

Browse All Plants See Design Services Request a Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Black Lace® Elderberry a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

Ready to plan your landscape?

Browse more plants or reach out and we will help you choose the right combination for your space.

Request a Consultation Browse All Plants