Contents
Description
Sambucus Racemosa Sutherland Gold is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Adoxaceae family. It is commonly known as the Golden Elderberry or Golden Elder. This cultivar is native to North America and is highly valued for its golden foliage that changes to yellow-green in summer. It produces clusters of small white flowers in late spring, followed by bright red berries in the fall. The plant is hardy and can tolerate cold weather, making it an excellent choice for gardens in northern regions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Adoxaceae |
| Genus | Sambucus |
Appearance
Sambucus Racemosa Sutherland Gold grows up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide. The plant has a dense, upright growth habit and produces multiple stems from the base. Its leaves are opposite, pinnate, and have a bright golden-yellow color that turns to yellow-green in summer. The leaflets are ovate, serrated, and have a pointed tip. In late spring, the plant produces flat-topped clusters of small white flowers that attract pollinators. The flowers are followed by bright red berries that ripen in the fall and are edible but not very tasty.
Care Guide
Sambucus Racemosa Sutherland Gold is an easy-to-grow shrub that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips:- Water: The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil but can tolerate some drought once established.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears.- Soil: The plant grows best in fertile, slightly acidic soil but can adapt to a wide range of soil types.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade but can tolerate shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sambucus Racemosa Sutherland Gold is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, or powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plant healthy by providing adequate water and nutrients and pruning out any infected branches.
Habitat
Sambucus Racemosa Sutherland Gold is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, wetlands, and riverbanks. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate cold weather.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I eat the berries of Sambucus Racemosa Sutherland Gold?
A: Yes, the berries are edible but not very tasty.
Q: Does Sambucus Racemosa Sutherland Gold need pruning?
A: Yes, pruning can help maintain the plant’s shape and remove any dead or diseased wood.
Q: Is Sambucus Racemosa Sutherland Gold deer-resistant?
A: No, the plant is not deer-resistant and may need protection from browsing.
Q: Can Sambucus Racemosa Sutherland Gold grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers but will require regular watering and fertilization.
Related Plants
– Sambucus Black Lace- Sambucus Nigra- Sambucus Canadensis- Sambucus Adnata- Sambucus Pubens
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Sambucus racemosa ‘Sutherland Gold’. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c744- Gardening Know How. (2021). Golden Elderberry Care: How To Grow A Golden Elderberry Plant. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/golden-elderberry/golden-elderberry-care.htm- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Sambucus racemosa (Red Elderberry). Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/sambucus-racemosa/
