Botanical profile

Sambucus nigra 'Golden Tower'

Latin name
Sambucus nigra 'Golden Tower'
Common name
Golden Columnar Black Elderberry 'Golden Tower'
Type
Shrub
Family
Adoxaceae

Sambucus nigra ‘Golden Tower’, commonly known as ‘Golden Tower’ elderberry, is a deciduous shrub with a narrow, columnar habit, remarkable for its finely cut, luminous golden-yellow foliage. Its compact vertical silhouette makes it an excellent choice for small spaces, row plantings, or as a structural accent in borders. In early summer, it produces large umbels of small, slightly fragrant, creamy-white flowers that are melliferous and attractive to pollinators, followed by clusters of edible, purplish-black berries after cooking. The contrast between the golden foliage and the dark fruits is particularly decorative. Vigorous and hardy, Sambucus nigra ‘Golden Tower’ prefers rich, fresh, well-drained soil and a sunny exposure to maintain the intensity of its coloration.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 5
Exposure
Sun
Watering
Regular watering
Fertilization
Spring berry fertilizer. Fertilize monthly or as directed on the bag. Add Myke when planting.
Soil type
Rich, fresh, well-drained
Minimum temperature
'-34°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
White
Fruiting
Clusters of edible purplish-black berries after cooking
Foliage color
YELLOW
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Columnar
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
3 to 4 m (10 to 13 feet)
Width
1.2 m (4 feet)
Growth rate
average
Vegetable garden and yield

Companion planting, spacing and harvest

Fruit tree type
Small black fruit for processing
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.