Botanical profile

Sambucus canadensis 'Aurea'

Latin name
Sambucus canadensis 'Aureus'
Common name
Golden Canadian Elderberry 'Aureus'
Type
Fruit shrub
Family
Adoxaceae

Sambucus canadensis 'Aureus' is an ornamental North American elderberry, notable for its very bright golden-yellow foliage, particularly vibrant in spring and early summer. It forms a large, bushy shrub with a broad habit, fast but stable growth, ideal for the back of a border, a free-growing hedge, or a naturalized area. In summer, it produces large, flat umbels of white, nectar-rich flowers, followed in autumn by decorative purplish-black fruits, appreciated by birds. Hardy, tolerant of moist soils rich in organic matter, it brings structure, light, and ecological diversity to the garden. 'Aureus' is a reliable choice for naturalistic plantings or biodiversity gardens in cold climates.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 3
Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Watering
Regular watering
Fertilization
Spring berry fertilizer. Fertilize monthly or as directed on the bag. Add Myke when planting.
Soil type
Rich, fresh to moist, well-drained
Minimum temperature
'-34°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
White
Fruiting
Small black berries, edible when ripe
Foliage color
YELLOW
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Fruit shrub
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
2 to 3 m (6 to 10 feet)
Width
2.5 m (8 feet)
Growth rate
fast
Vegetable garden and yield

Companion planting, spacing and harvest

Fruit tree type
Cooked edible berries
Not recommended for pets
Not recommended for pets

Pets

Pollinators
Attracts or supports pollinating insects

Pollinators

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.