Aralia sp.

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.

Similar plants:

• Aralia chinensis (Chinese Angelica Tree)
• Aralia cordata (Japanese Spikenard)
• Aralia elata (Japanese Angelica Tree)
• Aralia spinosa (Devil's Walkingstick, Angelica Tree)
• Plerandra elegantissima, Schefflera elegantissima, Aralia elegantissima, Dizygotheca elegantissima (False Aralia, Finger Aralia, Threadleaf)
• Steganotaenia araliacea (Carrot Tree)
• Tetrapanax papyriferus, Tetrapanax papyrifer, Fatsia papyrifer, Aralia papyrifera (Rice-Paper Tree )