Black Elder (Sambucus Nigra) is a perennial shrub in the Viburnaceae family with easy care difficulty. It requires moderate watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 4-8. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Sambucus nigra is a deciduous shrub or small tree known for its rapid growth, attractive white flowers, and clusters of small black berries.

Black Elder

Black Elder

Sambucus Nigra

Sambucus nigra is a deciduous shrub or small tree known for its rapid growth, attractive white flowers, and clusters of small black berries.

Quick Facts

Type
shrub
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Easy
Water Needs
Moderate
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
4-8

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:loamy, sandy, clay
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:hedge, screen, specimen, wildlife habitat

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Black Elder

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Black Elder
Black Elder detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Viburnaceae
Genus:Sambucus