Aralia racemosa

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Aralia Racemosa 6 Aralia Racemosa 5 Aralia Racemosa 4 Aralia Racemosa 3 Aralia Racemosa 2 Aralia Racemosa Aralia Racemosa 1
Aralia Racemosa 6 Aralia Racemosa 5 Aralia Racemosa 4 Aralia Racemosa 3 Aralia Racemosa 2 Aralia Racemosa Aralia Racemosa 1

Aralia racemosa

Common Name: American Spikenard

Aralia racemosa, known as American Spikenard, is a robust perennial that can grow 3 to 7 feet tall. It features large, compound leaves and produces small, greenish-white flowers in elongated clusters around July, which are followed by dark purple berries. This plant is typically found in rich, moist woodlands and forest edges. In landscaping, American Spikenard is valued for its bold foliage and ornamental berries, making it suitable for shade gardens and naturalized areas.

Characteristics

Product Form Plant
Type Forb
Sun Partial Sun, Shade
Soil Loam
Moisture Mesic, Wet
Average Max Height (inches) 36
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches) 20
Bloom month(s) July
Bloom Color or Type White, Green
Dominance Medium

Range Maps

Sowing Information

For most homeowners, the recommended method is to hand-broadcast seed at a minimum rate of 16–64 PLS (Pure Live Seed) ounces per acre. To ensure even coverage, broadcast the seed in perpendicular passes across the site. Grass seed should be broadcast first and lightly raked into the soil. Afterward, apply a light mulch layer using clean, seed-free straw or, preferably, our native Little Bluestem straw, available at our retail garden centers. Once mulching is complete, broadcast native wildflower seed over the area without raking it in. A good rainfall or thorough watering will provide sufficient soil contact for successful germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.