Sambucus Nigra diagnosis

Credit: Flickr / Kpjas

Q: I’m not sure what’s up with my Sambucus nigra this spring; I had to cut the entire top four feet of the shrub off as leaves just seemed arrested and died. The lower new growth seems fine. Any suggestions?     

I believe the problem is desiccation caused by the wind. See “rhododendron and hydrangea disease.” The problem seems to be confined to the upper part of the plant, which is likely more exposed.