Golden Variegated Elderberry Sambucus nigra 'Aureomarginata' (v)

Names

• Family

  Adoxaceae.

• Synonyms

  Golden Variegated Elder, Variegated Black Elderberry, Variegated Elder.

• Common names

  Sambucus nigra 'Aureomarginata' (v).

Toxicity

• To humans

  The common name of Sambucus nigra 'Aureomarginata' is Elderberry. Parts of the elderberry plant are poisonous to humans, particularly the leaves, twigs, seeds, and unripe berries, as they contain cyanogenic glycosides which can release cyanide, a potent toxin. Ingesting these parts of the plant can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, can result in more serious consequences such as respiratory distress, seizures, and even coma. Cooking properly can destroy the glycosides in the berries, making them safe to consume when ripe.

• To pets

  Elderberry is also toxic to pets for the same reasons it is toxic to humans. The cyanogenic glycosides can cause similar symptoms in pets, such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and can be potentially fatal if consumed in large quantities. It's important to keep pets away from elderberry plants, particularly from the leaves, twigs, seeds, and unripe berries, to prevent accidental poisoning.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Variegated

• Flower color

  Cream

• Height

  6-10 feet (1.8-3 m)

• Spread

  6-10 feet (1.8-3 m)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  5

• Native area

  Europe

General Benefits

• Attractive Foliage: Sambucus nigra 'Aureomarginata', also known as Variegated Elderberry, features eye-catching golden-edged leaves that add color and interest to the garden.
• Wildlife Habitat: Variegated Elderberry provides shelter and nesting sites for birds and other wildlife.
• Edible Fruit: The plant produces elderberries that can be used to make jams, jellies, and wines, though they should be cooked before consuming to remove toxic compounds.
• Fast Growth: Variegated Elderberry is a fast-growing shrub, quickly creating structure and filling spaces in the landscape.
• Drought Resistance: Once established, the Variegated Elderberry is relatively drought-resistant, requiring less water compared to some other plants.
• Pollinator Friendly: The flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing pollination in the garden.
• Screening Plant: Its dense foliage makes it an excellent choice for use as a natural screen or hedge to provide privacy.
• Seasonal Interest: Variegated Elderberry provides seasonal interest with its flowers in spring and berries in summer, adding to the garden's aesthetic value across seasons.
• Low Maintenance: Aside from occasional pruning, the Variegated Elderberry is relatively low maintenance, making it an easy addition to the garden for gardeners of all skill levels.

Medical Properties

• Immune support: Contains high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants, which may support the immune system.
• Respiratory health: Traditionally used to treat colds, influenza, and other respiratory issues due to its expectorant properties.
• Anti-inflammatory: May have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce swelling and pain.
• Antiviral properties: Some studies suggest that elderberry extracts might inhibit the replication of certain viruses.
• Diuretic: Traditionally used as a diuretic, helping with urine flow and reduction of fluid retention.
• Laxative: Has been used to help with constipation due to its laxative properties.
• Antioxidant: Rich in antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• The elderberry can be used in the craft of dye making, where the berries provide a natural source of purple or blue dye for textiles.
• Green elderberry branches can be used to make simple garden plant stakes, being strong enough when young to support small plants.
• The hollowed-out branches of elderberry can be turned into flutes or whistles by those knowledgeable in traditional woodcraft.
• Berries from the elderberry plant can be used as a natural food coloring in baking, adding a reddish-purple hue to pastries and desserts.
• Elderberry wood is soft and easily carved, making it suitable for crafting small items such as spoons or decorative ornaments.
• The flowers from Sambucus nigra can be dipped in a light batter and fried to make a sweet and aromatic elderflower fritter, a unique culinary treat.
• Due to its fast growth, elderberry can be used in permaculture as a ‘nurse plant’, providing shelter and improving the microclimate for more sensitive plants.
• Leaves from the elderberry can be added to compost heaps, where their high nitrogen content helps speed up the composting process.
• Elderberry branches are sometimes fashioned into simple jewelry such as necklaces or bracelets by drying and threading the hollow stems.
• When trimmed and dried, elderberry twigs can be woven into baskets or used in other forms of traditional wickerwork.

Feng Shui

The European Elderberry is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The European Elderberry is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Elder: Sambucus nigra 'Aureomarginata', commonly known as Elder, symbolizes protection due to a long-standing belief that the plant wards off evil spirits. In folklore, it was often planted near homes for this purpose.
• Elder: Represents wisdom and longevity, as elders are often associated with knowledge accrued over years and elder plants can live for many years.
• Elder: Symbolizes transformation and renewal because the elder tree is known to easily regenerate from damage and can also be used to produce rejuvenating elderflower and elderberry products.
• Elder: Is associated with the fairy realm and magic, which stems from various mythologies where the elder tree is considered a conduit between different worlds or a favorite of fairies.