I've never grown it--too cold here-- but it is a zone 4 plant. When you get it pinch the growing tips back to make it bush out. You sacrifice flowers but it makes a better bushier plant. The plant blooms on last years growth put on in August so don't prune it after then.

I have one here in zone 4 - Wisconsin. This will be its 3rd year and it has died back almost to the ground each year, but it does regrow vigorously. I have it planted in an exposed area beside our pond, so it should do well in your zone 5. EJ

I have been growing a Black Lace Elder for a few years now.
It does die back to the ground every year. But it seems to bounce back fine.

A photo from late last summer.

Sjelley

Oh, beautiful, Shelley. I planted one last year and am hoping for similar results.

I agree, very nice! I planted one in August, so crossing my fingers it will make the winter. But I won't hold my breath, as it is in a more exposed area than yours Shelley.
Deb

Shelley, what's that silvery plant to the left of it? It goes very nicely with the sambucus, which is lovely, too. :)

Marcia, It is a Polar Bear Willow. I love it. I'm starting to get huge pussy willows on it now.

Shelley

Thanks, Shelley - got that info filed away!