University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension - Selecting Shrubs for Your Home
http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/shrubselector
European Elderberry
Sambucus nigra
European Elderberry, form of the cultivar ‘Guincho’s Pride’
Size:

Small
Size: medium
Medium
Size: large
Large
Exposure/ Light Requirements:
Full Shade not required.
Full Shade
Full Sun required.
Full Sun
Partial Sun/Shade required.
Partial Sun/Shade
Pests and Problems:

Environmental Damage

Fungal Disease


Aphids are a common problem. Occasional problems with borers, cankers and powdery mildew.
Hardiness Zone: 5 - 7 
Mature Height: 10-20 Feet
Mature Width: 8-12 Feet
Features: Large flattened clusters of tiny cream-colored flowers in early summer, fragrant; large clusters of small black berries in late summer.
Culture: Full sun to partial shade; moist, well-drained soils are best, but will tolerate some dryness as well as wet sites; tolerates alkaline soil.
Cultivars:
  • 'Albo-variegata' - White speckled foliage.
  • 'Gerda' (Black Beauty™)- Black (dark purple) leaves, fragrant pink flowers.
  • 'Madonna'- Leaves are a mix of green and yellow; white flowers.
  • 'Pulverulenta'- Green leaves mottled with white.
Mature Form: Upright to oval
Native To: Europe and Asia
Soil Conditions:
Soil condition: DryDry
Soil condition: Moist, Well-DrainedMoist, Well-Drained
Soil condition: WetWet
Tolerance:
Tolerance: Alkaline SoilAlkaline Soil
Tolerance: Dry SitesDry Sites
Salt
Soil Compaction
Tolerance: Wet SitesWet Sites
Tolerance: WindWind
Uses:
Barrier
Border
Foundation
Hedge
Massing
Naturalizing
Screen
Use for: Specimen.Specimen
Foliage Color: Green
Variegated
 
Fall Foliage Color: Green
Yellow
 
Additional Notes: Tends to sucker and may need regular pruning to keep the plant in good shape.