Sambucus nigra 'Lemony Lace' is a striking elderberry cultivar prized for its finely dissected chartreuse yellow foliage that brightens the landscape from spring through fall. Pink flower clusters appear in early summer contrasting beautifully with the vibrant leaves.
Height & Spread: 3 - 5 ft x 3 - 6 ft
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soils; tolerant of average garden soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture
Deer Resistance: Somewhat deer resistant
Native Status
This cultivar is derived from Sambucus nigra, native to Europe. While not native to North America, it shares many ecological functions with native elderberries.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- The berries attract thrushes, cardinals, and other songbirds who feed on the fruit in late summer and fall.
Beneficial Insects
- Flowers attract beetles, hoverflies, and parasitic wasps that support ecological pest control.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 4 - 6 ft apart to allow for full maturity and natural shape.
Landscape Placement
- Use as a focal point in mixed borders, wildlife gardens, or as a vivid backdrop in foundation plantings. Performs well in cottage and pollinator gardens.
Companion Plants
- Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo' (Ninebark) - Provides dark foliage contrast against the bright yellow of elderberry.
- Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Offers summer blooms and upright form that pairs well with Sambucus.
- Panicum virgatum (Switchgrass) - Adds vertical form and movement with complementary fall tones.
- Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian Sage) - Adds drought tolerance and cool toned flowers beneath the elderberry's bright canopy.
- Allium 'Millenium' - Offers mounding shape and midseason color that integrates well in ornamental borders.