Aralia elata (Miq.) Seem.

Growth Form

Aralia elata (Miq.) Seem. is an upright deciduous small tree or shrub that grows up to 10 m (33 ft) tall.

Bark Characteristics

Its bark is rough, gray, and covered with prickles.

Leaf Morphology

The leaves are alternate, large, measure 60–120 cm long, and are double pinnate.

Flower Traits

Small white flowers are arranged in large umbels and emerge in late summer.

Fruit Characteristics

The fruit it produces is a small black drupe.

Related Species

Aralia elata is closely related to the American species Aralia spinosa, and the two are easily confused.

Species Distinction Feature

Aralia elata can be distinguished from A. spinosa by having its inflorescence arranged along a horizontal axis.

Cultivation Purpose

Aralia elata is cultivated, often in variegated forms, for its distinctive exotic appearance.

Growing Conditions

It grows best in deep loamy soils in partial shade, but it can also grow in poorer soils and full sun.

Horticultural Awards

The cultivars 'Variegata' and 'Aureovariegata' have received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.