Sambucus nigra ‘Black Beauty’

 

Grass Garden

 

Sambucus nigra ‘Black Beauty’ can be seen in the Grass Garden.

This striking shrub with deep purple/black pinnate (divided) leaves and fragrant flowers in a flattened head, are deep pink in bud but open with a white centre. They are followed by black berries.

This deciduous shrub or small tree is easy to grow in rich, moist soils but will equally thrive on chalky soil. The shrub can be pruned back hard to keep it within its allotted space. It colours up best if grown in full sun, but keeps its colour best if grown in partial shade, causing a conundrum when planting. Be careful with its placing as it is poisonous when ingested.