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Aralia (ar-ray-lee-uh); Aralia Family (Araliaceae) a genus of ornamental herbs, shrubs and trees of North America, Asia and Australia. The woody species make imposing, if somewhat coarse-textured plants for the large shrub border or for use as bold lawn specimens. The perennials are useful in the wild garden, in rich soil.

Aralia

Aralia c. 'Sun King' (20)ct Flat

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Aralia

Aralia c. 'Sun King' (20)ct Flat

Aralia cordata 'Sun King ' Common Name: Golden Japanese Spikenard. 2020 Perennial Plant of the Year 'Sun King ' emerges mid-spring with bright gold leaves on contrasting reddish brown stems. With at least a few hours of sun a day, the foliage will...

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What Is Aralia?

The genus Aralia, commonly known as spikenard, is a group of about sixty-eight species of deciduous or evergreen trees, shrubs, and rhizomatous herbaceous perennials. They are native to Asia and the Americas, with most species occurring in mountain woodlands.

Aralia plants vary in size, with some herbaceous species only reaching fifty centimeters (20 inches) tall, while some are trees growing to twenty meters (66 feet) tall. They typically have compound leaves with large, lobed leaflets. The flowers are small and white or greenish, borne in clusters or umbels. The fruits are drupes, which are fleshy berries with a single hard seed.

Some Aralia species are used as food plants by the larvae of some Lepidoptera species, including the common emerald (Hemithea aestivaria). Some species, notably Aralia cordata, are edible and are cultivated for human consumption.

Here are some of the most common species of Aralia:

Japanese spikenard (Aralia elata): A large, deciduous tree that can grow up to twenty meters tall. It is native to Japan and Korea and is popular in horticulture for its attractive foliage and fragrant flowers.

Korean angelica (Aralia nudicaulis): A small, herbaceous perennial that grows to about fifty centimeters tall. It is native to eastern Asia and is known for its medicinal properties.

American ginseng (Aralia quinquefolia): A small, herbaceous perennial that grows to about sixty centimeters tall. It is native to eastern North America, and is valued for its root, which is used in traditional Chinese medicine.

How Do I Plant Aralia?

Planting Aralia depends on the specific species and whether you are aiming for outdoor or indoor cultivation. Here is a general guide, but be sure to research the specific needs of your chosen Aralia variety for optimal results:

Choose a suitable location:

Light: Most Aralia prefer partial shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Some like full sun in milder climates. Avoid harsh, direct sunlight.

Soil: Well-draining soil is crucial. Amend clay soil with sand and organic matter for better drainage. Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH.

Space: Consider mature size and spacing needs. Some Aralia can reach 15-20 feet, so provide ample room to avoid crowding.

Planting:

Timing: Plant in spring or early fall when temperatures are mild.

Dig a hole: Twice the width and depth of the root ball.

Position the plant: Gently loosen the root ball and place it in the hole.

Backfill: Fill in the hole with a mix of your original soil and compost. Tamp gently but firmly.

Water thoroughly: Soak the soil until it is well-moistened.

Aftercare:

Water regularly: Keep the soil evenly moist but avoid overwatering. Allow the top inch to dry slightly before watering again.

Mulch: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilize: Use a balanced fertilizer sparingly, following package instructions.

Pruning: Prune lightly to remove dead or damaged branches and maintain desired shape.

Additional tips:

Handle Aralia with care as they have delicate leaves and stems.

Wear gloves when handling as some Aralia species can cause skin irritation.

Be mindful of pests and diseases and treat them promptly if necessary.

Remember, these are general guidelines, so be sure to research the specific needs of your chosen Aralia variety for the best chance of success. Enjoy bringing your beautiful Aralia to life!

What Are The Different Varieties Of Aralia?

The vibrant world of Aralia boasts a diverse range of over sixty-eight species, each offering unique charm and characteristics. Here is a glimpse into some popular varieties, categorized for your convenience:

Outdoor Beauties:

Japanese Spikenard (Aralia elata): A majestic deciduous tree reaching twenty meters, adorned with large, fern-like leaves and fragrant white flowers. Ideal for spacious gardens.

Korean Angelica (Aralia nudicaulis): A petite herbaceous perennial, topping fifty centimeters with delicate foliage and clusters of white flowers. Thrives in shady woodland areas.

American Ginseng (Aralia quinquefolia): A North American gem, this 60-centimeter perennial sports lobed leaves and tiny greenish flowers. Prized for its root used in traditional medicine.

Himalayan Spikenard (Aralia cachemirica): A stunning shrub or small tree, showcasing glossy, deeply lobed leaves and creamy-white flower clusters. Adds an exotic touch to warm climates.

Indoor Delights:

Ming Aralia (Polyscias fruticosa): A graceful choice, Ming Aralia boasts feathery foliage in varying shades of green, perfect for adding airiness to your home. Easy to care for and loves bright, indirect light.

Fabian Aralia (Polyscias scutellaria 'Fabian'): This sculptural beauty features glossy, scalloped leaves held upright on branching stems. Enjoys bright light and makes a striking accent piece.

Variegated Balfour Aralia (Polyscias balfouriana 'Marginata'): For a pop of color, this Aralia flaunts glossy green leaves edged with creamy white. It thrives in bright, indirect light and adds a touch of elegance to any room.

Hawaiian Sunrise Aralia (Polyscias scutellaria 'Hawaiian Sunrise'): This vibrant variety showcases leaves speckled with shades of pink, cream, and green. Enjoys moderate light and creates a tropical haven indoors.

Beyond the Classics:

Umbrella Aralia (Heptapleurum stellatum): This tropical stunner boasts whorls of glossy leaves resembling umbrellas. It prefers high humidity and adds a touch of the jungle to your indoor space.

Golden-leaved Aralia (Aralia elata 'Variegata'): A sunshine spreader, this majestic tree sports leaves edged with vibrant gold. Ideal for large gardens and offers year-round interest.

Japanese Angelica Tree (Aralia elata 'Golden Umbrella'): This unique cultivar displays a cascade of golden-green leaves from its branches, resembling a sunlit umbrella. A striking addition to warm-climate gardens.

Remember, this is just a taste of the Aralia world. With so many diverse varieties, the perfect one awaits your discovery. Research the specific needs of your chosen Aralia to ensure it thrives in your care and brings you years of joy!

How Do I Care For Aralia In My Garden?

Taking care of your Aralia in the garden will depend on the specific species you have, but here are some general guidelines to get you started:

Light and Location:

Most Aralia prefer partial shade, especially during midday heat. Full sun can scorch leaves, particularly in hot climates. Consider the mature size of your Aralia and space it accordingly to avoid crowding neighbors.

Some varieties tolerate full sun in cooler climates but keep an eye out for leaf burn and adjust watering accordingly.

Plant your Aralia in a well-draining location. Clay soil may need amending with sand and organic matter to prevent waterlogging, which can damage roots.

Watering and Feeding:

Water regularly, aiming to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can stress your Aralia and stunt growth.

During hot, dry periods, you may need to water more frequently. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilize sparingly. A balanced fertilizer applied once or twice a year during the growing season is usually sufficient. Follow the dosage instructions on the fertilizer package and avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn roots.

Pruning and Maintenance:

Pruning is generally not necessary unless your Aralia becomes leggy or overcrowded. You can lightly prune to remove dead or damaged branches, maintain desired shape, or encourage bushier growth.

Wear gloves when pruning, as some Aralia species can cause skin irritation.

Be mindful of pests and diseases and treat them promptly if necessary. Aphids, scales, and fungal diseases can sometimes affect Aralia plants.

Additional Tips:

Mulching around the base of your Aralia helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Use organic materials like wood chips, compost, or bark.

Deadheading spent flowers can encourage more blooms in some Aralia species.

Some Aralia varieties may self-seed, so keep an eye out for unwanted seedlings and remove them if necessary.

Remember, these are general guidelines, and the specific needs of your Aralia will vary depending on the species. Research the specific requirements of your Aralia to ensure you provide the best possible care and help it thrive in your garden.

I hope this helps! Enjoy watching your Aralia flourish in your garden!

Do Aralia Plants Attract Pollinators?

Whether Aralia plants attract pollinators depends on the specific species, as Aralia encompasses a diverse group with varying characteristics. Here is a breakdown to help you understand their pollinator appeal:

Some Aralia species are indeed attractive to pollinators, particularly bees and butterflies. Their attraction lies in these factors:

Blooms: Some Aralia varieties feature clusters of small, white, or greenish flowers that offer nectar and pollen to pollinators. Examples include American Spikenard (Aralia quinquefolia) and Japanese Spikenard (Aralia elata).

Scent: Certain Aralia species release a mild fragrance that attracts bees and other pollinators, like the Himalayan Spikenard (Aralia cachemirica).

Open flowers: Some Aralia flowers have open structures that allow easy access for pollinators to reach the nectar and pollen, such as the American Spikenard.

However, not all Aralia species are equally inviting to pollinators. Here is why:

Small, inconspicuous flowers: Some Aralia varieties have tiny, greenish flowers that might not be readily noticeable to pollinators, limiting their attractiveness.

Limited nectar production: Certain Aralia species offer minimal nectar rewards, making them less enticing for bees and other nectar-loving pollinators.

Late-blooming species: Some Aralia bloom later in the season, potentially missing peak pollinator activity earlier in the year.

Here are some specific examples:

American Spikenard: Highly attractive to bees and butterflies due to its fragrant, open flowers and abundant nectar.

Japanese Spikenard: Attracts diverse pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and small flies, with its white flower clusters and moderate nectar production.

Korean Angelica: Less attractive to pollinators due to its small, greenish flowers and limited nectar, though some bees may visit it.

Ming Aralia (Polyscias fruticosa): Primarily an indoor plant with inconspicuous flowers, offering minimal appeal to pollinators.

Overall, while some Aralia species hold significant charm for pollinators, others do not offer the same level of attraction. If you are looking to attract pollinators to your garden, research the specific Aralia variety you are interested in and consider planting species known for their pollinator-friendly features like fragrant flowers, open blooms, and abundant nectar production.

Remember, creating a diverse and pollinator-friendly garden involves choosing a variety of plants with staggered bloom times to provide a continuous food source throughout the season. So, explore the wonders of Aralia with their diverse blooms and find those that can contribute to your pollinator haven!

Are There Any Common Pests Or Diseases That Affect Aralia?

While generally resilient, Aralia plants are not immune to the occasional pest or disease. Here are some common culprits to watch out for:

Pests:

Spider mites: These tiny arachnids weave fine webbing on leaves and suck out their sap, causing yellowing, stippling, and leaf drop. Look for their webbing and tiny, moving specks on the undersides of leaves.

Aphids: These soft-bodied insects cluster on stems and leaves, feeding on sap and causing distorted growth, wilting, and honeydew secretion (a sticky substance that attracts ants and sooty mold).

Scale insects: These armored or soft-bodied pests attach themselves to leaves and stems, sucking out sap and leaving behind waxy scales. They can cause stunted growth, yellowing, and leaf drop.

Mealybugs: These cottony-looking insects feed on plant sap and leave behind honeydew. They can damage leaves and stems, causing wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth.

Diseases:

Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown or black spots to form on leaves, which can eventually fall off. It thrives in humid conditions and poor air circulation.

Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a white, powdery coating to form on leaves, stems, and flowers. It thrives in cool, humid conditions and can stunt growth.

Botrytis: This fungal disease causes gray mold to develop on leaves, flowers, and stems. It thrives in humid conditions and can cause wilting, rot, and even plant death.

Tips for prevention and control:

Plant Aralia in a suitable location with good drainage and air circulation. This will help to prevent fungal diseases.

Inspect your plants regularly for pests and diseases. Early detection and treatment is key.

Use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil to control pests. These are organic options that are safe for most plants and beneficial insects.

For fungal diseases, use a fungicide. Read the label carefully and follow the instructions for use.

Remove and destroy infected plant parts. This will help to prevent the spread of disease.

Encourage beneficial insects in your garden. These predators will help to control pests naturally.

Remember, a healthy Aralia plant is more resistant to pests and diseases. Provide your plant with proper care, including sufficient water, light, and fertilizer, to help it thrive and resist potential problems.

By following these tips, you can help your Aralia plants stay healthy and beautiful.

Can I Use Aralia In Floral Arrangements?

Aralia is a fantastic addition to floral arrangements, offering stunning foliage and versatility. Here is why it is a great choice:

Visual Appeal:

Bold and Textural: Aralia leaves boast dramatic shapes and intricate veins, adding striking texture and visual interest to arrangements. The large, lobed leaves, often compared to human hands, make a bold statement and instantly elevate the composition.

Color Palette: Choose from various shades of green, from vibrant lime to deep emerald, or even variegated options with creamy white edges. This allows you to complement or contrast your chosen flowers in the arrangement.

Versatility: Aralia can play various roles. Use it as a backdrop for delicate flowers, create a lush base for a tropical feel, or incorporate its dramatic leaves as statement pieces themselves.

Practical Benefits:

Long-lasting: Aralia foliage stays fresh for a long time, ensuring your arrangements remain beautiful for days, even weeks.

Easy to Use: The sturdy stems are easy to work with, allowing for flexible placement and shaping within the arrangement.

Low Maintenance: Aralia requires minimal care once cut, needing no special treatment like frequent misting or water changes.

Here are some tips for using Aralia in floral arrangements:

Choose the right variety: Some Aralia species, like Fatsia japonica, are particularly popular for floral use due to their large, glossy leaves.

Prepare the leaves: Wash and dry the leaves thoroughly before using them.

Consider scale and proportion: Balance the size and texture of the Aralia leaves with the other elements in the arrangement.

Get creative: Experiment with different placements and combinations of Aralia leaves and flowers to create unique and eye-catching designs.

Inspiration for using Aralia in floral arrangements:

Tropical Paradise: Combine Aralia with vibrant orchids, birds of paradise, and bromeliads for a lush,

Aralia in tropical floral arrangements

Rustic Charm: Pair Aralia with sunflowers, dahlias, and berries for a rustic, autumnal feel.

Modern Elegance: Create a sleek and sophisticated arrangement by using Aralia with white calla lilies, orchids, and anthuriums.

With its stunning looks and versatility, Aralia can take your floral arrangements to the next level. So, go ahead and get creative with this amazing foliage!

Is Aralia Invasive?

The answer to whether Aralia is invasive depends on the specific species and location. Some Aralia species are native and beneficial, while others have been introduced to new environments and become invasive, causing harm to native ecosystems.

Here is a breakdown:

Non-invasive Aralia:

Native Varieties: Several Aralia species are native to specific regions, like American Ginseng (Aralia quinquefolia) in North America and Himalayan Spikenard (Aralia cachemirica) in Asia. These play vital roles in their natural habitats, supporting wildlife and contributing to ecosystem health.

Ornamental Cultivars: Many cultivated Aralia varieties, like Ming Aralia (Polyscias fruticosa) and Fabian Aralia (Polyscias scutellaria 'Fabian'), are primarily grown indoors or in controlled garden settings and pose no invasive threat.

Invasive Aralia:

Japanese Angelica Tree (Aralia elata): This species, native to Northeast Asia, has become a concerning invasive threat in several parts of the United States and Europe. It spreads rapidly through seeds and suckers, outcompeting native plants, disrupting natural ecosystems, and forming dense thickets that impact biodiversity.

Five-leaf Aralia (Eleutherococcus sieboldianus): This shrub, also native to East Asia, exhibits invasive tendencies in certain areas, potentially harming native flora and fauna.

Tips for responsible Aralia planting:

Research the specific Aralia species before planting. Identify its native range and potential invasiveness in your local area.

Choose native or non-invasive cultivars whenever possible. This ensures you contribute to preserving local ecosystems and avoiding harm to the environment.

Be mindful of where you plant Aralia. Avoid areas where they might escape into natural habitats or spread uncontrolled.

Monitor your Aralia plants regularly. If you notice signs of aggressive spreading or potential harm to native vegetation, consider responsible removal options.

Remember, understanding the ecological impact of your plant choices is crucial for responsible gardening. By making informed decisions about Aralia and similar species, you can contribute to a healthy and biodiverse environment.

When Is The Best Time To Divide Aralia?

The best time to divide aralia depends on your climate and the specific type of aralia you have. Here's a breakdown:

General rule:

Early spring: This is the ideal time for most Aralia species in temperate climates. The ground is cool but not frozen, the roots are starting to wake up, and the plant has plenty of time to establish before hot weather arrives.

Specific types:

Japanese Spikenard (Aralia cordata): Early spring, ideally before new growth emerges. You can also divide in late summer or early fall if your climate is mild and doesn't have early frosts.

Sun King Aralia (Aralia cordata 'Sun King'): Same timeline as Japanese Spikenard - early spring, late summer, or early fall in mild climates.

Manchurian Aralia (Aralia elata): Early spring. Avoid dividing this species in late summer or fall as it doesn't recover well from root disturbance during those times.

Additional factors to consider:

Weather: Avoid dividing aralia during periods of extreme heat, drought, or heavy rain. Choose a mild, overcast day if possible.

Plant size and health: Dividing is best for mature, healthy plants that have grown large and crowded. Avoid dividing weak or stressed plants.

Tips for dividing aralia:

Dig up the entire plant carefully, keeping as much root ball intact as possible.

Divide the root ball into sections with a sharp knife or spade, ensuring each section has healthy roots and at least one shoot bud.

Replant the divisions immediately in well-drained, fertile soil. Water deeply and keep the soil moist until the plants are established.

By following these guidelines, you can increase your chances of success when dividing your aralia and enjoy its lush foliage for many years to come.

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Aralia

Aralia c. 'Sun King' (20)ct Flat

Aralia

Aralia c. 'Sun King' (20)ct Flat