The Black Tower Elderberry Has a Moderate to Fast Growth Rate
The black tower elderberry (Sambucus nigra ‘Effel1’) is an upright, fast-growing shrub known for its pinkish blooms and purplish-black berries. This eye-catching plant has a moderate to fast growth rate, quickly reaching maturity within just a few years of being planted.
In the first year, expect new black tower elderberry plants to grow around 3-4 feet tall and wide. These shrubs establish rapidly, getting their root systems in place and pushing out an abundance of new growth above ground. With proper care, they can gain several feet of height annually.
By the second year most black tower elderberries achieve a size of 6-8 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide. They continue extending upwards at a vigorous pace, their multiple stems coated in dark purple-black foliage. When happy, these elderberries can surge over a foot vertically each year.
Three year old plants typically stand 8-10 feet tall, taking on a dense, full shape. At this stage, black tower elderberries start taking on their mature form but still have substantial room to expand. Their rapid growth allows them to quickly fill their allotted space in gardens and landscapes.
In ideal conditions, mature black tower elderberry shrubs can reach impressive proportions of 10-15 feet tall and wide. However, with annual pruning, they can be maintained at more manageable sizes of 6-10 feet tall and 3-5 feet wide. Their growth rate starts to slow slightly once established.
Overall, the first 3 years are when black tower elderberries surge ahead at their peak pace. Their fast growth while young transforms them from small starter plants into substantial features in short order. With pruning and occasional thinning, these large shrubs can be shaped as desired without sacrificing their vigor.
Factors Affecting Black Tower Elderberry Growth Rate
Several key factors play a role in determining the growth rate of black tower elderberries:
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Light – Eldereberries need full sun to partial shade to thrive. Insufficient light slows growth.
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Water – Consistent watering is vital, especially while young. Drought stress inhibits fast growth.
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Soil – Moist, fertile, well-draining soil provides ideal conditions for growth.
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Temperature – Growth occurs in temperatures ranging from -30F to 100F. Extreme heat or cold slows the pace.
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Pruning – Annual pruning invigorates these shrubs, promoting new growth.
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Nutrients – Regular fertilization supplies nutrients to fuel rapid growth.
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Pests & Disease – Freedom from major issues allows plants to focus energy on growth.
With proper site selection, planting, care and maintenance, black tower elderberries make stunning additions to landscapes. Their ornamental qualities develop quickly thanks to their naturally fast growth habit, creating focal points and providing ecosystem benefits. Annel pruning keeps their size in check while stimulating new growth.
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Easy to grow tall shrub: Sambucus ‘Black Tower’
FAQ
How fast does black elderberry grow?
Elderberry has a moderate to fast growth rate. A typical garden setting will usually see growth from 1 – 2 feet per year. An ideal settings with plenty of moisture and sunlight can see growth of 2 – 3 feet per year.
Is Sambucus Black Tower fast-growing?
Akin to its relative Black Lace, this is a fast-growing deciduous large shrub or small tree. Sambucus nigra Black Tower has tough, dark purple-black leaves.
Do black tower elderberries like sun or shade?
Where it Grows: Elderberry grows in well-drained, medium to wet soil with full sun to part shade. Although it tolerates a wide range of soils, it prefers moist, humusy ones.
How quickly do elderberries grow?
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Zero Waste Homesteadhttps://zerowastehomestead.comHow to Grow Elderberries with Tips from a Seasoned GrowerYoung plants will usually need to be watered with about 1 to 2” of water per week for the first 1 to 2 years, while established plants may only need supplementa…
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Hardy Fruit Tree Nurseryhttps://www.hardyfruittrees.caElderberry – Hardy Fruit Tree NurseryThis fast-growing shrub starts to produce berries within 2 years of planting, and generally reaches about 3 metres or 10 feet in height at maturity. It may spre…
Is Black Tower elderberry a good plant?
Black Tower Elderberry is the right plant when you want to grow a plant that grows vertically and beautifies narrow space and small garden. Its rich, bright flowers and black-purple foliage will add beauty and class to any space. The dark foliage is often complimented when the stunning pink flowers begin to develop on them.
How big does a black tower elderberry get?
Black Tower Elderberry is a fast-growing plant that can reach 6-8 feet in height and 3-4 feet in width. In some cases, it can grow even taller, reaching 20-30 feet.
When does the Black Tower Elderberry shed its leaves?
Like most temperate species, the Black Tower Elderberry sheds its leaves in winter to cope with water loss from the dry winter air and secure some energy for the spring. Black Tower Elderberry is a plant with a quick growth rate that can grow about 6-8 feet in height and 3-4 feet wide.
Will Black Tower elderberry tolerate drought?
Black Tower Elderberry will not tolerate drought, but you should not overwater it as well. It is important to allow the soil to dry out between watering, but don’t let it dry out completely, as it will halt the growth of the plant. Starting from the bloom time till it harvests, Black Tower Elderberry requires an inch of water every week.
Where does Black Tower elderberry grow?
This stunning plant is indigenous to Africa, Europe, and Southwestern Asia. Black Tower Elderberry belong to the family of Adoxaceae that is part of the Sambucus genus. It grows delicious berries that cannot be eaten raw but are often enjoyed in jellies, pies, and jams.
How do you grow Black Tower elderberry?
The black tower elderberry has a preference for cool, damp weather but can tolerate a wide range of climates and temperatures. Keep reading for an overview of the basic steps for growing these unique elderberry shrubs. The black tower elderberry prefers well-draining, humusy soil with acidity between 5.5 to 6.5 pH.