Sambucus nigra f. porphyrophylla Black Lace®

This highly cultivated form of the familiar Black Elder is primarily a foliage plant whose deeply cut, purple-black leaves present themselves in graceful, fern-like fans. Sambucus nigra f. porphyrophylla Black Lace® plants are broadly arching and reach 6–8' in height, perhaps 5' wide, and make superb specimens for many situations. Large pink flowers in June lead, in due course, to black berries which are beloved by birds (for humans, the berries are toxic when raw but are edible, and even medicinal, when cooked). Because plants are hardy through all of Zone 5, and into 4, they provide a very welcome alternative to Japanese Maples where exquisite foliage is needed but harsh temperatures prevail. For best shape and foliage, prune hard in early spring and provide even moisture. The color is best in cool climates and foliage may grow primarily green in hot areas. A remarkably beautiful plant that cleaned up the prizes at the Chelsea Flower Show in 2003. A Proven Winners®/Color Choice® variety. 'Eva' PP 15,575

Elders are a diverse group, primarily comprising hardy deciduous trees and shrubs, along with a few herbaceous members. They come from North America, Asia, and Europe and are known for their large heads of white or cream-colored flowers. These are followed by red, purple-black, or blue fruits, which are well regarded for making cordials and preserves. The leaves are pinnate and the more ornamental varieties have elegantly cut leaflets or variegated or colored foliage. In general, Elders are trouble-free plants, happy in ordinary soil and needing only a late-winter pruning to maintain their size and shape.

For more information on the growing and care of Sambucus, click Growing Guide.

HOW PLANTS ARE SHIPPED

The size of the plants we ship has been selected to reduce the shock of transplanting. For some, this means a large, bareroot crown. Others cannot travel bareroot or transplant best if grown in containers. We ship these perennials and annuals in 1 pint pots, except as noted. We must point out that many perennials will not bloom the first year after planting, but will the following year, amply rewarding your patience. We ship bulbs as dormant, bare bulbs, sometimes with some wood shavings or moss. Shrubs, Roses, vines, and other woody plants may be shipped bareroot or in pots. The size of the pot is noted in the quick facts for each item.

WHEN WE SHIP

We ship our bulbs and plants at the right time for planting in your area, except as noted, with orders dispatched on a first-come, first-served basis by climate zone. We also ship a wide range of containers and planters, tools, supplies, fertilizers, garden wear, garden decor items, as well as indoor decorations like wreaths and dried bouquets when available. Estimated dates for shipping are indicated in the green Shipping Details box for each item. Please supply a street address for delivery. Kindly contact us with two weeks notice, if you'll be away at the expected time of delivery.

OUR GUARANTEE

We guarantee to ship plants that are in prime condition for growing. If your order is damaged or fails to meet your expectations, we will cheerfully replace or refund it. Please contact our Customer Service Department at 1-800-503-9624 or email us at [email protected]. Please include your order number or customer number when contacting us.