Forms of Sambucus, also known as elders, are easy-to-grow shrubs and small trees that produce frothy white flowerheads in May and June, followed by heavy clusters of small, black berries. Several popular cultivars have pink flowers and/or purple leaves. Common elder, Sambucus nigra, carries sprays of tiny white flowers in early summer followed by small black fruits (which may be cooked and eaten, or used to make a summer drink).

Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' has very finely cut, almost black foliage, which is the perfect foil to the pink-flushed blooms. In autumn, its leaves turn a rich red. Meanwhile, Sambucus nigra 'Black Beauty' has almost black foliage and sweet, lemon-scented, pale pink flowers in early summer. Sambucus are well suited to growing at the back of a shrub or mixed border, but they also look good in wild or natural settings, such as a woodland garden. They thrive in moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part shade.

To produce the best foliage, prune your Sambucus plants hard back – to near ground level, or at least to the main trunk or stem – every year in early spring. However, remember that doing this may be at the expense of flowers and fruit.