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Sambucus nigra 'Purpurea' - Purple Elderberry

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Sambucus nigra 'Purpurea' is better known as the Purple Elderberry, a remarkable shrub that offers a thrilling fusion of visual appeal and hardy practicality. Every well-curated garden should have this vivacious plant, with its vibrant purple, lance-shaped leaves that burst into life come spring, blanketing any landscape with a splash of color that truly stands out. In early summer, delightful domed clusters of pink flowers bloom, transforming the shrub into a mecca for a host of pollinators. As the seasons turn, these blooms yield to dark, blackish-red berries, a veritable banquet for birds and insects alike. With a majestic stature of up to 20 feet in height and spread, this shrub is a statement-maker. Despite its considerable size, the Purple Elderberry is notably versatile, thriving under a variety of conditions, from full sun to partial shade, and preferring moist, well-drained soil. It is both heat and cold tolerant, adept at bringing a bold contrast to any landscape while delivering the practical benefits of low maintenance and high adaptability. The Purple Elderberry simply has it all - dramatic color, enticing fragrance, nourishing fruit, and an eye-catching presence. Its solid performance across seasons makes it a must-have for any landscape design, be it a border, hedge, or wildlife garden, promising a performance that is as engaging as it is easy to sustain.

  • Size: Up to 20 feet tall and wide
  • Flowers: Pink clusters
  • Foliage: Vibrant purple lance-shaped leaves
  • Water usage: Moderate, prefers moist but well-drained soil
  • Sun exposure: Full sun to partial shade
  • Wildlife attraction: Produces blackish-red berries that attract birds and insects.
  • Commonly purchased with Sambucus nigra 'Purpurea' (Purple Elderberry)

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    Calocedrus decurrens (Incense Cedar)

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    Sambucas nigra caerulea (S. mexicana) (Blue Elderberry)

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