Sambucus ‘Cherry Lace’

Description

Description & Key Details

Foliage and Flowers

• Leaves are finely dissected and lacy, starting greenish-red and maturing into deep cherry-red or burgundy hues with a glossy sheen.

• Flowers bloom in early to mid summer (May–June), forming flat, umbrella-like clusters with creamy-white centers and striking cherry-pink edges.

Fruit and Wildlife Value

• These later develop into glossy black elderberries, generally safe when cooked and enjoyed in jams, syrups, or cordials—but note that raw berries and other green parts contain toxins (e.g., cyanogenic glycosides) and must be properly prepared.

• The plant is excellent for attracting pollinators, bees, butterflies, and wildlife.

Size & Growth Habit

• Compact and tidy, typically growing to around 1.5 m (5 ft) tall and wide—making it suitable for small gardens, containers, or even front-of-border planting.

• Some sources mention it may grow up to ~2 m tall and ~2.5 m wide, but most UK sellers list 1.5 m × 1.5 m as typical.

Growing Conditions & Care

• Thrives in full sun to partial shade, with well-drained but moist soil.

• Hardy down to approximately –15 °C to –22 °C (RHS rating H6: –20 °C to –15 °C).

• Low maintenance: minimal pruning needed; cut back to ground level in early spring after the second year to encourage vibrant new growth.

• Drought tolerant once established and adapts well to various soil types including clay, chalk, loam, or sand.

Summary Table

In essence, Sambucus ‘Cherry Lace’ is a compact, ornamental elder with exquisite lacy foliage and striking seasonal interest through foliage, blooms, and berries. It’s a versatile, hardy, and low-maintenance choice ideal for enhancing borders, containers, or wildlife-friendly gardens