Oplopanax Elatus

Description

Oplopanax Elatus, also known as Devil’s Club, is a deciduous shrub that is native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America. It belongs to the Araliaceae family and is closely related to ginseng. This plant can grow up to 15 feet tall and has thick, spiny stems that are covered in sharp, needle-like thorns. Its leaves are large, up to 10 inches across, and are deeply lobed with a glossy, dark green surface. The plant produces small, greenish-white flowers in the summer, followed by bright red berries that ripen in the fall.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Oplopanax Elatus is a striking plant with its large, glossy leaves and sharp thorns. Its stems are covered in a thick layer of spines that can grow up to 1 inch long. The plant typically grows in a clump, with multiple stems emerging from the base. Its leaves are deeply lobed and have a glossy, dark green surface. The flowers are small and greenish-white, and the plant produces bright red berries in the fall. Oplopanax Elatus is a deciduous plant, meaning that it loses its leaves in the winter.

Care Guide

Oplopanax Elatus is a low maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

• Water: Oplopanax Elatus prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate some drought. Water the plant regularly, especially during the hot summer months.
• Fertilization: This plant does not require much fertilization. You can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil in the spring if desired.
• Soil: Oplopanax Elatus prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy or clay soils.
• Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can damage the leaves.
• Hardiness Zones: Oplopanax Elatus is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Oplopanax Elatus is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can still be affected by a few common issues. Here are some potential problems to watch out for:

• Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause discoloration and webbing on the leaves. They can be treated with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. It can be treated with a fungicide spray.
• Root Rot: This disease can be caused by overwatering or poor drainage. It can be prevented by ensuring the soil is well-drained and not too wet.

Habitat

Oplopanax Elatus is native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America, where it grows in moist, shaded areas such as forests and stream banks. It can also be found in Alaska and parts of Canada. The plant thrives in cool, damp climates and is often used in landscaping as a shade-loving shrub.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Oplopanax Elatus poisonous?

A: The plant is not considered toxic, but its sharp thorns can be painful if touched.

Q: Can Oplopanax Elatus be grown in a container?

A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it has enough room to grow and is kept in a shaded area.

Q: How often should Oplopanax Elatus be pruned?

A: The plant does not require much pruning, but you can remove any dead or damaged branches in the spring if desired.

Q: What is the best way to propagate Oplopanax Elatus?

A: The plant can be propagated by taking stem cuttings in the spring or by dividing the root ball in the fall.

Related Plants

• Oplopanax Horridus (Devil’s Club)
• Panax Genseng (Ginseng)
• Aralia Elata (Japanese Angelica Tree)
• Eleutherococcus Senticosus (Siberian Ginseng)

References

• “Oplopanax elatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282667.
• “Oplopanax elatus (Nakai) Nakai Devil’s Club.” Plants for a Future, www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Oplopanax+elatus.
• “Oplopanax elatus.” Pacific Northwest Plant Database, https://depts.washington.edu/propplnt/Plants/Oplopanax%20elatus.htm.