Sambucus plants
Sambucus, or elder pants, are tall, arching deciduous shrubs with large, deeply dissected, toothed foliage which is commonly golden, black or variegated for ornamental garden varieties. They produce attractive sprays of flat flower heads in shades of pink or white that are attractive to bees and butterflies from May to June. These flowers are followed by small black fruits (elderberries) in the autumn, which are high in vitamin C and can be cooked and eaten, or used to make a refreshing summer drink. Sambucus are a great choice if you’re not able to grow Japanese acers but want something with a similar look and feel. Elder plants work well as standalone specimens towards the back of a shrubbery or mixed border or in a row as a dramatic, informal, flowering hedge. Native elder, Sambucus nigra has been used medicinally throughout history and is well known for its use in various syrups and drinks. Choose Sambucus Black Lace for dramatic, near-black leaves that works well as a contrast against lighter-foliaged plants or Sambucus Plumosa Aurea for a spot in partial or dappled shade with bronze young leaves turning golden-yellow as they mature. Elder plants are fast growing and low maintenance.