Sambucus nigra 'Thundercloud'

Also Known As

Sambucus nigra f. porphyrophylla 'Thundercloud'
Black Elder
European Elder

Plant type

tree, shrub

size

H: 6'-8'
W: 6'-8'

planting zones

5a-10b

More Options

Sambucus nigra 'Thundercloud' plant details

Sambucus nigra 'Thundercloud' is a broadleaf deciduous shrub or tree with black and burgundy foliage. In spring and summer pink and white flowers emerge followed by black and purple fruit. Attracts birds. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and even moisture - regular water. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in rich soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Sambucus nigra 'Thundercloud'

Plant type: shrub or tree
Plant family: adoxaceae
Foliage: deciduous black and burgundy
Mature size: 6 FT - 8 FT - wide, 6 FT - 8 FT - tall
Flowers: pink and white blooms in spring and summer
Uses: screen

GROWING CONDITIONS for Sambucus nigra 'Thundercloud'

USDA Zones: 5a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: even moisture - regular

Soil needs: rich

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Dramatic burgundy foliage the color of a rising thundercloud is topped by mounds of bright reddish-pink flowers making this 6-8' shrub one that will be definitely noticed and enjoyed by all, the lovely pink bloom become dark-purple black berries enjoyed by gardeners and birds alike; color is best in sun. S/M

By: Forestfarm

Stormy burgundy foliage and true reddish-pink flowers in May through June. Best if grown in full sun.

By: Greer Gardens Inc.

A highly ornamental background “screen-out-your-ugly-view” shrub reaching 6-8' tall. This new sport of "Black Elderberry" displays luscious shiny burgundy-black finely-cut foliage, making it a superb & long-lived focal point or contrasting foundation plant. Better yet, in May or June it bears large clusters of rosy-pink blooms which emerge from showy red buds. These are followed by dark berries much loved by the birds or from which you can make Elderberry wine. For maximum dark foliage grow in rich soil & full sun & cut back in late Winter to the ground. Pair it with golden leaved plantings like Tanacetum parthenium 'Aureum' for crazy-beautiful contrast. Spreads to 12' across by suckers.