Aralia cordata

‘Japanese Spikenard’

Araliaceae: a large upright herbaceous perennial plant growing up to 3m (9.8ft). Attractive and unusual creamy white flower umbels, up to 30-40cm across, from July to August, followed by small, black berries. Large, pinnate foliage that turns a lovely yellow in the autumn. Found in woodlands. Native to Japan, Korea, and eastern China.

Uses:

The edible shoots can be eaten in spring, which have a lemon-fennel flavour. The root is sometimes used in China as a substitute for ginseng.

Growing Information:

Prefers a good deep loam and a semi-shady position but grow well for me in full sun but we do have cool summers. Dormant plants are hardy to about -25°C, but young growth in spring can be frost-tender. Seed has been moist packed to preserve its viability (avoid purchasing from sellers who offer dried seeds as these will fail to germinate - seeds still contained in berries are however perfectly fine). Sow immediately upon receipt. Keep pot outdoors or in cold frame over winter. Seeds germinate in spring.

Great bee plant.

HARVESTED: OUT OF SEASON

APPROX. 10 FRESH BERRIES* [APPROX 50 SEEDS]