Pet Safe
moderate Care
black elder
Sambucus nigra 'Eiffel 1' BLACK TOWER
The Black Elder (Sambucus nigra 'Eiffel 1' Black Tower) is an easy-to-grow shrub with unique features and uncommon dark foliage. It is a deciduous shrub that grows to heights of about 6-8 ft. with a width of 4-6 ft. Its striking umbrella-shaped foliage consists of deep purple foliage combined with clusters of tiny white flowers and abundant, spherical, black to blue-black berries. Landscape architects and gardeners choose this variety for structural, ornamental, and edible purposes. The dense foliage of this classic elder plant provides excellent cover and food for wildlife. Its flowers and berries make it a delightful addition to any garden setting.
Sunlight
Partial Shade
Water Needs
high
USDA Hardiness Zones
Zone 5Zone 6Zone 7Zone 8
Hardiness Map
Green areas show climates worldwide where this plant can grow.
Zone 5Zone 6Zone 7Zone 8
Loading map…
Water Every
"2-3" days
Sun Needs
partial-shade
Growth
Moderate
Care Level
High
Watering Schedule
Frequency
Day 1"2-3" daysDay NaN
💧 Water every "2-3" days
Seasonal Adjustments
Adjust watering frequency based on temperature, humidity, and season. Water more frequently in summer and less in winter.
Pro Tip: Check soil moisture before watering. Stick your finger 1-2 inches into the soil—if it's dry, it's time to water!
Season
Fall
Sep Oct Nov
Winter
Dec Jan Feb
Spring
Mar Apr May
Summer
Jun Jul Aug
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
—
—
—
—
—
Starts Flowering
Starts Flowering
Starts Flowering
—
—
—
—
Pruning Time
Flowering
How to Propagate
Seed Propagation
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost date
Greenwood Cuttings
Take 4-6" cuttings in spring, root in water or moist soil
Hardwood Cuttings
Take 4-6" cuttings in spring, root in water or moist soil
Plant Characteristics
Drought Tolerant
Is This Plant Right for You?
Good For:
- •Forgetful waterers
- •Homes with pets
Consider Carefully:
- •Indoor growing
Bloom Seasons
summer
Care Tips
Light Requirements
Enjoys dappled or limited direct sun—about 2–4 hours of morning or late afternoon light and protection during peak midday sun.
Watering
Requires frequent watering to maintain moist soil. Don't let the soil dry out completely.
Best Planting Time
Plant in early spring or fall for best results. Blooms in summer.