Black Lace Elderberry is a fruit producing deciduous shrub with an loosely upright habit and deeply cut purple foliage on purple stems that mature to grey.  Clusters of tiny pink lemon-scented flowers bloom in summer before giving way to edible black-purple fruits.  Prefers full sun and moist, humisy well-drained soil.  While self-fruiting, the fruit yields would increase with multiple plants.

MAINTENANCE NEEDS: High Maintenance.  Some susceptibility to leaf spots, powdery mildew, and canker. Watch for aphids, borers, and spider mites. Branches are susceptible to damage from high winds or heavy snow.  Can spread aggressively in optimum conditions.  Regular pruning will keep the plant attractive. 

LANDSCAPE USES:  Accents or Group Plantings, Borders, Woodland Gardens, Naturalized Areas, Wildlife Gardens, Urban Gardens, Hedges, and Containers.

COMPANION PLANTS: Allium, Salvia, Loosestrife