This cultivar of the native North American species features deeply dissected, fern-like foliage, which sets it apart with its unique and ornate appearance. The finely lobed leaves create a delicate lacework effect, which combined with the arching stems of this plant provide an interesting focal point in the garden, especially in the fall when the leaves turn shades of gold, yellow, and orange.
In addition to its striking foliage, Sambucus canadensis 'Laciniata' offers clusters of fragrant, creamy-white flowers in late spring to early summer, followed by glossy black elderberries in late summer to early fall.
A suckering plant useful for naturalizing and forming colonies, this plant will require maintenance in most residential gardens. Late winter pruning to remove suckers and control shape is recommended.
Conditions: Full sun to part shade; tolerant of wet and poorly drained soils.
Size: 5’ - 8’ tall and wide
Zone: 3 – 9
Wildlife Value: American Black Elderberry hosts 34 different species of butterflies and moths in our area. Though this cultivar has not been evaluated, the species hosts winged beauties such as the White-lined Sphinx, the Whitemarked Tussock Moth, and the Cecropia Moth – North America’s largest native moth
Photos: Samantha Nestory