Overview

Aralia racemosa is a plant with a shrubs, trees habit in the genus Aralia, part of the Araliaceae family, with deciduous, evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 1–2 metres tall. Aralia racemosa grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1a. Suggested uses include shady borders and woodland gardens.

About

Aralia racemosa, with common names American spikenard, small spikenard, Indian root, spice berry, spignet, life-of-man, petty morel, is an ornamental plant in the family Araliaceae native to the United States and Canada. It is a herbaceous plant, about 1 to 2 m tall, which grows in shady areas.

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About the genus

Aralia, or spikenard, is a genus of the family Araliaceae, consisting of 68 accepted species of deciduous or evergreen trees, shrubs, and rhizomatous herbaceous perennials. The genus is native to Asia and the Americas, with most species occurring in mountain woodlands. Aralia plants vary in size, with some herbaceous species only reaching 50 centimetres (20 in) tall, while some are trees growing to 20 metres (66 ft) tall.

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Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Aralia

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil type

Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained

Aspect

East-facing, South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H1a

Plant details

Aralia racemosa size, habit and characteristics

Habit

Shrubs, Trees

Foliage

Deciduous, Evergreen

Height

1–2 metres

Suggested uses

Shady borders, Woodland gardens

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Aralia racemosa

Propagation

Stem cuttings, Seeds

Pest resistance

Resistant to honey fungus

Frequently asked questions