Sambucus nigra 'Eva' (tradename Black Lace) is the second variety to be released from the breeding program at Horticultural Research International, England, after Black Beauty in 1999, led by Ken Tobutt (breeder of the Ballerina Apple trees). It comes from a cross between two siblings resulting from the cross between a seedling of 'Laciniata' x 'Guincho Purple' and a seedling of 'Laciniata' x 'Aurea'. 'Eva' is a very useful new plant for landcape work and in many respects creates the same effect as do Acers and also providing excellent colour contrasts in the garden. Apart from the attractive dark purple almost black dissected foliage, it also produces attractive pink buds and fragrant flowers in May and June. They are followed by blackish-red berries in the autumn; It is fully hardy, thrives on a wide range of soils in sun or partial shade. It will reach 3x3m in 5 years or with regular pruning can be kept to 2m. The variety is the result of 10 years of breeding and selection. Plants are available from  a number of major UK Nurserymen. Contact Ursula Twomey Fax 0044 1732 849067 or the HDC  www.hdc.org.uk