This shrub is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: June
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  This striking elderberry is perfect for adding height and colour to a smaller garden because its natural habit is slender and upright. The foliage is really pretty too, being deeply incised and if grown in a sunny spot, a bright yellowish green - and in early summer the display is topped off with flattened clusters of white flowers.
  
  
• Garden care: To achieve the best foliage effect cut back to ground level each year in early spring and apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant.