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Spikenard

Aralia racemosa

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This is a vigorous grower. Its beautiful dark fruits, which arrive after the flowers, bring an abundance of birds.

CarePruning the suckers at any time to control the spread of Aralia is important unless you want this plant for use in a large border where it will rapidly form a dense thicket. Protect from wind damage.

PropagationSow seed in containers in a cold frame when ripe or stratify and sow in spring. Divide rhizomatous perennials in the spring. Insert root cuttings of woody species in the winter. Transplant suckers in early spring.

ProblemsVery susceptible to Alternaria leaf spot and Xanthomonas leaf spot. Aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs are quite common and stem borers may occur.

  • Genus : Aralia
  • Plant Width : 3 to 6 feet
  • Zones : 5, 6, 7, 8
  • Plant Height : 6 to 10 feet
  • Uses : Containers
  • Bloom Time : Early Summer, Late Spring, Spring, Summer
  • Growth Rate : Fast
  • Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Flower Color : Green, White
  • Moisture : Medium Moisture
  • Maintenance : Moderate
  • Plant Type : Perennials
  • Characteristics : Showy Fruit

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