Description
The Lemony Lace Elderberry, also known as Sambucus racemosa 'SMNSRD4' or Sambucus racemosa 'Lemony Lace', is a deciduous shrub prized for its delicate, lacy foliage and its vibrant golden-yellow color. Here are some key features of the Lemony Lace Elderberry:
-
Appearance: The Lemony Lace Elderberry is a compact shrub with an upright, spreading habit. It typically reaches a height and width of about 4 to 7 feet. The most notable feature of this plant is its finely cut, fern-like leaves, which emerge in a bright golden-yellow color in spring and gradually mature to a chartreuse green as the season progresses. In early summer, small clusters of creamy-white flowers appear, followed by red berries in the fall.
-
Hardiness: Lemony Lace Elderberry is hardy in USDA zones 3-7, making it suitable for a wide range of climates. It is tolerant of various soil types and environmental conditions but prefers moist, well-drained soil.
-
Sunlight: This shrub thrives in full sun to partial shade. While it can tolerate some shade, it will produce the best foliage color in full sun.
-
Landscape Use: The Lemony Lace Elderberry is valued for its ornamental foliage, making it an excellent choice for adding texture and color contrast to mixed borders, woodland gardens, or as a focal point in the landscape. It can also be grown in containers on patios or decks.
-
Maintenance: Lemony Lace Elderberry is relatively low-maintenance. It benefits from regular watering, especially during hot, dry periods, but is tolerant of occasional drought once established. Pruning can be done in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged wood.
-
Berries: While the berries of the Lemony Lace Elderberry are not typically considered edible for humans, they are attractive to birds and wildlife.
Overall, the Lemony Lace Elderberry is prized for its striking foliage, ease of care, and ability to add visual interest to the landscape throughout the growing season.
Specifications
Climate Zone: |
3-7 |
Plant Type: |
Deciduous |
Type: |
Specimen Shrub |
Mature Height: |
4-7 Feet |
Mature Width: |
4-7 Feet |
Sun Exposure: |
Full Sun/ Partial Shade |
Bloom Time: |
Summer |
Flower Color: |
White |
Attracts Pollinators: |
Yes |
Growth Rate: |
Slow |
Deer Resistant: |
Yes |
Soil Type: |
Well-Drained |