Golden Elderberry Sambucus nigra 'Aurea'

Names

• Family

  Adoxaceae.

• Synonyms

  Golden Elderberry, Golden European Elder, Golden Elder.

• Common names

  Sambucus nigra 'Aurea'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  The common name for Sambucus nigra 'Aurea' is elderberry. Most parts of the elderberry plant are poisonous to humans when consumed raw or unprepared. This includes leaves, twigs, seeds, roots, and unripe or raw fruits which contain cyanogenic glycosides. When ingested, these substances can cause symptoms including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, and headaches. Severe poisoning can potentially lead to more serious symptoms like difficulty breathing, weakness, and seizures. Cooking the berries properly destroys the toxic compounds, making ripe berries safe to consume.

• To pets

  Elderberry, the common name for Sambucus nigra 'Aurea', is also toxic to pets. The plant contains cyanogenic glycosides, primarily in its leaves, twigs, seeds, roots, and unripe or raw fruits. If pets ingest these parts of the elderberry plant, they may exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy. In severe cases, cyanide poisoning can lead to more serious issues like difficulty breathing, seizures, and potentially be fatal. Ripe berries are less toxic, but it's generally recommended to keep pets away from the plant to ensure their safety.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Golden

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  8-12 feet (2.4-3.7 meters)

• Spread

  6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  4

• Native area

  Europe

General Benefits

• Attractive Foliage – The plant is known for its golden-yellow leaves, adding a splash of color to any landscape.
• Wildlife Habitat – Provides shelter and food for birds, bees, and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity.
• Edible Fruit – Produces black elderberries that can be used in jams, syrups, and wines (though they must be cooked to be safe for consumption).
• Drought Tolerant – Once established, it is fairly drought-resistant, requiring less water compared to other shrubs.
• Fast-Growing – Rapid growth allows for quick establishment and filling in of garden areas.
• Erosion Control – Its root system helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes.
• Low Maintenance – Requires minimal pruning and care once established in a suitable location.
• Versatile Landscaping – Can be used in a variety of landscape settings, including hedges, screens, or standalone ornamental elements.
• Seasonal Interest – Offers visual interest throughout multiple seasons with changing foliage colors and berry production.
• Tolerant of Different Soil Types – Adapts to a wide range of soils, although it prefers well-drained, fertile ground.

Medical Properties

• Immune Support: The elderberry flowers and fruits have been traditionally used to enhance immune function.
• Respiratory Health: Elderberry is commonly used for its potential to alleviate symptoms associated with the common cold and flu, such as coughs and sore throats.
• Antioxidant Effects: Elderberries have high levels of flavonoids, which are compounds that possess antioxidant properties to help protect cells from damage.
• Anti-inflammatory: The berries and flowers may provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Diuretic Effect: Elderflower is traditionally used for its diuretic properties, having the potential to aid in fluid reduction.
• Antiviral Activity: Some studies suggest that elderberry extracts have antiviral properties, particularly against certain strains of the influenza virus.
• Skin Health: Topical applications of elderflower-infused products are used to improve skin health, though these are primarily cosmetic rather than strictly medical.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Elderflower-infused liquids: The flowers of the elder can be used to infuse water, vinegar, or oils with its flavor, which can then be used in culinary applications or as a natural fragrance in home products.
• Natural dye: The flowers and berries of the elder can be used to create natural dyes for textiles or crafts, yielding shades ranging from deep blue and purple to lighter pastels depending on the mordant used.
• Garden landscaping: With its striking golden foliage, Elder 'Aurea' is often planted as an ornamental feature in gardens to add contrast and visual interest.
• Photography prop: The vibrant and attractive flowers and foliage of elder 'Aurea' are sometimes used as a backdrop or feature in portrait and macro photography.
• Floral arrangements: Fresh or dried elderflowers are used in floral arrangements to add a unique texture and scent, contributing a rustic and natural aesthetic.
• Wildlife habitat: Elders can provide important habitat and food for wildlife, particularly birds who benefit from the berries and insects that are attracted to the flowers.
• Musical instruments: In traditional cultures, the hollow stems of the elder have been used to make simple musical instruments like flutes and whistles.
• Culinary garnish: Elderflowers can be crystallized with sugar and used to decorate desserts, adding both visual appeal and a subtle floral flavor.
• Craft materials: The branches and stems of elder can be used in basket making, providing a natural and sturdy material for weaving.
• Companion planting: Elder 'Aurea' may be used in companion planting schemes intended to attract beneficial insects to the garden or to provide light shade for shade-loving plants.

Feng Shui

The Black Elderberry, commonly known as Sambucus nigra 'Aurea', is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Black Elderberry is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Protection: Sambucus nigra, commonly known as Elderberry, has been associated with protection in folklore. It was believed that planting an elder near your house would protect the inhabitants from evil spirits.
• Healing: Elderberry has a long history of being used in traditional medicine. Its symbolic meaning of healing derives from its use for treating various ailments, from flu and colds to inflammation.
• Rebirth: The plant's ability to regenerate and grow back even after being cut down has led to its symbolic association with rebirth and renewal.
• Transformation: Elderberry's various stages of growth from flowers to dark berries symbolize transformation and the cyclical nature of life.
• Prosperity: In some traditions, the elder tree was thought to bring good luck and prosperity to the household it was grown near.