Black Beauty Elderberry
Sambucus nigra 'Gerda'
Planted 2011
The Black Beauty Elderberry is a visually attractive plant that can add contrast to your yard. It has lemon-scented blooms and shiny black fruit. It attracts pollinators and other wildlife. It gets to be 8-15’x8’; great for hedges or alone. Can spread aggressively, so be sure to maintain it.
| Height | Width | Zone | Growth Rate | Water Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8-15 ft. | 8 ft. | 4-8 | Fast | Medium |
Leaf
Opposite, compound pinnate, sharply serrate, 4-12” long, 3-9 leaflets, dark purple-green, deciduous.
Fruit
Shiny black fruit, ¼” diameter, September.
Flower
Pink, 5-rayed, flat-topped cymes, June, lemon-scented.
Advantages
Adaptable to various soils, attracts pollinators and other wildlife, attractive.
Disadvantages
High maintenance, aggressive spreading.