1 / 4

Key characteristics

Family: Adoxaceae
Height: 5 to 6 feet
Width: 4 to 5 feet
Flower color: Light pink clusters
Foliage color: Deep purple-black leaves with a rich contrast
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low, prune regularly to maintain shape
Growing zone: USDA Zones 4 to 7
Wildlife: Attracts bees, butterflies, and birds, particularly with its berries

Shrubs

Sambucus nigra 'Eva'

Black Lace Elderberry

Sambucus nigra 'Eva', commonly known as Black Lace elderberry, is an ornamental shrub known for its finely cut, deep purple-black foliage and delicate pink flowers. Blooming in late spring to early summer, it produces large, flat clusters of small, pale pink blossoms that contrast beautifully with the dark, almost black leaves. As the season progresses, small dark berries form, adding additional interest and attracting birds.

Light

Prefers full sun to partial shade

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Late spring to early summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Sun Gardens
Foundation Plantings
Cottage Gardens
Bird Gardens

Companion plants

Phlox · Pittosporum · Hardy mums · Feather reed grass · Cranesbill · Butterfly bush

Design tip

Pair ‘Eva’ with plants carrying chartreuse, silver, or fresh green foliage to bring out the depth of its nearly black leaves. The contrast keeps this dark-leaved shrub from visually receding into the planting and highlights its finely cut texture even when it is not in bloom.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)