TROPICAL PLANT ENCYCLOPEDIA

Aralia sp., Spikenard

Aralia sp.

Spikenard
Family: Araliaceae
Large shrub 5-10 ft tallSmall tree 10-20 ftFull sunModerate waterRegular waterWhite, off-white flowersPlant attracts butterflies, hummingbirdsDeciduous plantEthnomedical plant.
Plants marked as ethnomedical and/or described as medicinal, are not offered as medicine but rather as ornamentals or plant collectibles.
Ethnomedical statements / products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We urge all customers to consult a physician before using any supplements, herbals or medicines advertised here or elsewhere.

Aralia sp. grows as a large shrub reaching 5-10 feet in height or as a small tree reaching 10-20 feet tall. The deciduous plant prefers full sun and regular water, with zones 9-11 as the ideal growing location. The plant is drought tolerant and requires moderate watering. The leaves are a deep green and the white, off-white flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds. As an ethnomedical plant, the species has had many uses and has been traditionally consumed for medicinal purposes.

When grown in the home garden, an ideal location is one with well draining, fertile, sandy soil and regular sun exposure. Aralia sp should receive regular water; however, during a period of drought, water requirements can be moderated. The plants prefer a neutral soil pH and mulching helps to retain moisture levels in the soil.

In cold regions, Aralia sp. is best grown in specific outdoor growing conditions or in a container. When grown in a pot, the soil should be amended with organic matter to help retain water and the pot should be placed in partial sun and checked regularly for water requirements. When temperatures drop below freezing, the container should be moved indoors until the temperatures moderates. The plant should be placed in a cool location, ideally between 50-60°F and continue to receive regular water. In warmer regions, the plant can be left outdoors year round.


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Aralia sp., Spikenard
Aralia sp., Spikenard


Link to this plant:
https://toptropicals.com/catalog/uid/aralia_sp.htm