Sambucus Racemosa Sutherland Gold

2-3 Litre Pot

• RHS Award of Garden Merit
• Position: Full sun, partial shade
• Soil: Moist, well drained
• Growth Rate: Average
• Flowering Period: Late spring – Early summer
• Hardiness: H7
• Eventual Height: 2.5 – 4m
• Eventual Spread: 2.5 – 4m

Sambucus Racemosa Sutherland Gold, also known as ‘Golden Elder’ and holder of the much coveted RHS Award of Garden Merit, is a deciduous shrub that is highly prized for its vibrant foliage and attractive appearance.

One of the most striking features of this Sambucus is its golden yellow foliage, which adds a bright splash of colour to any landscape. The leaves are large and deeply cut, with a delicate texture that contrasts beautifully with the dark bark of the branches. In late Spring or early Summer, the plant produces large clusters of fragrant, creamy-white flowers that are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators. These are followed by small, black berries in the Autumn that are also attractive to birds.

It can grow to a height and spread of up to 4 metres, making it an excellent choice for creating a focal point in a garden or as a hedge or screening plant. It is also highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of soil types and growing conditions, although it prefers a sunny or partially shaded location with well-drained soil.

Overall, this is a highly desirable plant that combines visual appeal with a range of practical uses, making it a great choice for gardeners of all levels of experience. With proper care and attention, this shrub can provide years of beauty and enjoyment in any landscape.

How to care for your Sambucus Sutherland Gold

• Planting: Choose a location that receives partial to full sun and has well-drained soil. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball of the plant, and add compost or other organic matter to the soil to improve its nutrient content. Plant the shrub at the same depth as it was growing in its container, and water thoroughly after planting.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, particularly during the plant’s first year of growth. Water deeply once a week or more frequently during periods of hot, dry weather. Avoid overhead watering, as this can cause fungal diseases.
• Fertilising: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early Spring before new growth appears. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilisers, which can encourage too much foliage growth at the expense of flowers and fruit.
• Pruning: Prune the shrub in late Winter or early Spring, removing any dead or damaged wood and cutting back any old or weak growth. You can also remove up to one-third of the plant’s total growth to encourage new growth and maintain its shape.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.

By following these basic care guidelines, you can keep your Sambucus Sutherland Gold healthy and looking beautiful year-round.