Sambucus nigra f. porphyrophylla Black Tower ('Eiffel 1') (PBR)
black tower elder
This shrub is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.
- Position: full sun or partial shade
- Soil: moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: average
- Flowering period: June
- Hardiness: fully hardy
This tall and slender deciduous shrub is primarily grown for its foliage, which emerges green in spring, but (if exposed to lots of sun) will soon turn a deep burgundy colour. In early summer, the stems are crowned with big, flattened sprays of lightly perfumed, small pink flowers. It makes a dramatic stand-alone statement, and is useful for adding contrast and interest to the shrub border. For best foliage colour grow it in full sun, otherwise it can fade to a greenish-bronze. - Garden care: To achieve the best foliage effect cut back to ground level each year in early spring and apply a generous 5-7cm mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant.
- Humans/Pets: Harmful if eaten; fruit/flowers edible if cooked