Black Tower Elderberry (Sambucus nigra ‘EIFFEL 1’)

Black Tower Elderberry (Sambucus nigra ‘EIFFEL 1’), also known as Black Tower or Eiffel Elderberry, is a dramatic columnar shrub prized for its deep burgundy foliage and upright growth habit. This compact, vertical cultivar brings bold color and structure to the garden while offering pollinator-friendly flowers and ornamental berries, making it both eye-catching and functional as a focal point in smaller spaces.

Distinctive Features

Black Tower typically grows 6 to 8 feet tall but stays just 3 to 4 feet wide, forming a narrow, architectural column. Its dark purple-black foliage emerges in spring and holds its color through the growing season. In early summer, clusters of soft pink flowers bloom against the dark leaves, followed by small black berries in late summer if another Sambucus nigra is nearby for pollination. The combination of vertical habit and rich color creates a strong visual accent in modern or traditional designs.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for richest foliage color; tolerates partial shade
• Soil Type: Moist, well-drained garden soil
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
• Water Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 8

Ideal Uses

• Focal point in narrow beds, corners, or courtyards
• Accent in dark-foliage or pollinator-themed gardens
• Vertical structure in foundation plantings
• Container plant for patios and small-space landscapes
• Background for lighter-colored perennials or shrubs

Low Maintenance Care

• Prune in early spring to shape or maintain height
• Mulch to conserve moisture and enrich soil
• Water regularly, especially during hot or dry periods
• Fertilize in spring with a balanced formula to support growth
• Pair with another Sambucus nigra cultivar for berry production

Why Choose Black Tower Elderberry

• Columnar habit adds height and structure in tight spaces
• Dark foliage provides bold contrast throughout the season
• Pink flowers attract pollinators and add softness to the form
• Ideal for small gardens, containers, or narrow borders
• A vertical focal point that combines beauty with practicality

Black Tower Elderberry delivers striking form and foliage in a compact footprint, making it a bold focal point for urban gardens, modern landscapes, or any setting that benefits from upright color and structure.