Sambucus Racemosa Sutherland Gold Elderberry

Sambucus Racemosa Sutherland Gold, commonly known as Elderberry Sutherland Gold, is a deciduous shrub with striking golden-yellow foliage and bright red berries. Awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit (AGM), this cultivar combines ornamental beauty with ecological benefits, making it a good choice for UK gardens.

Elderberry Sutherland Gold, a compact shrub has finely dissected pinnate leaves that emerge copper-red in spring, gradually transitioning to a luminous gold throughout the summer. In mid-spring, it produces creamy-white conical clusters of flowers that attract pollinators, later giving way to glossy red berries in autumn. Its upright, spreading habit fits a variety of garden spaces, offering seasonal interest from leaf emergence to berry display.

Native to Europe and parts of Asia, Sambucus Racemosa Sutherland Gold is a cultivar of the European Red Elder. Compared to Sambucus Nigra Black Lace, which has dark purple foliage, Sutherland Gold stands out for its bright golden leaves and red berries. Its compact size and unique coloration make it a distinctive feature in borders or wildlife-friendly gardens.

Elderberries have long been valued in European gardens for their decorative and ecological value, providing food for birds and pollinators. 'Sutherland Gold' is a modern cultivar developed for its vibrant foliage, compact habit, and reliable berry production, combining tradition with contemporary garden appeal.

Height and Hardiness of Sambucus Sutherland Gold

Elderberry Sutherland Gold typically grows 1.5 to 3 metres tall and wide. Hardy across most of the UK, it thrives in USDA zones 3 to 8. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and tolerates both full sun and partial shade.

Uses in Garden and Landscape:

Ideal for mixed borders, wildlife gardens, and informal hedges, Sutherland Gold adds bright colour and attracts birds with its berries. Its vibrant foliage contrasts beautifully with darker-leaved plants like Sambucus nigra Black Lace, and it pairs well with textured foliage plants such as Rodgersia. This combination enhances seasonal visual interest while supporting a diverse range of pollinators.

Care Tips:

Plant 'Sutherland Gold' in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade, particularly in warmer areas, to protect the foliage. Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage vigorous growth. Although tolerant of various soil types, consistent moisture promotes optimal health and berry production.