Michigan State University Extension
Ornamental Plants plus Version 2.0 - 00001315
01/01/98

Sambucus nigra--European Elder Hardiness Zones: 5 to 6 Height: 15 ft Spread: 15 ft Form: rounded

Type: deciduous shrub                                       
Annual Growth Rate: more than 18 inches                     
Flowers: white                                              
Fruit: black                                                

Comments: European Elder is a large shrub similar to other  
elders having flat clusters of white flowers followed by    
black fruits.  The plant can be used near water.            

Cultivars:                                                  
   'Albovariegata' - This cultivar can reach a height of    
     20 feet.  The foliage is edged with silver.            
   'Guincho Purple' - The dark, purplish green foliage      
     provides a contrasting background for the white        
     flowers.  The foliage color intensifies in late        
     summer and fall.                                       
   'Laciniata' - A cutleaf form.                            
   'Madonna' - A variegated cultivar with light green       
     leaves having a yellow edge becoming creamy white in   
     summer.                                                
    Purpurea' - The leaves are green but become dark        
     purple, turning red in the fall.  Flowers white        
     flushed with pink                                      

References for Cultivars: Sheridan Nurseries 1997, Weston   
Nurseries 1997, Spring Meadow Nursery 1997.                 

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