Aralia Cordata Sun King is a striking perennial plant with bold foliage and a unique texture. It is native to Japan, Korea, and China and belongs to the Araliaceae family. This plant is commonly known as the Sun King Japanese Spikenard and is a popular choice for gardeners who are looking for a low-maintenance plant with an exotic look.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Aralia |
Appearance
The Aralia Cordata Sun King has large, bright yellow-green leaves that are deeply lobed and can grow up to 3 feet in height. The leaves are arranged in a whorled formation around the stem, which gives the plant a unique, architectural look. In late summer, the plant produces small, white flowers that are followed by dark purple berries. The overall shape of the plant is mounded and compact, making it an excellent choice for container gardening or as a focal point in a garden bed.
Care Guide
The Aralia Cordata Sun King is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. Here are some care tips to help your plant thrive:
- Water: Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The Aralia Cordata Sun King prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Aralia Cordata Sun King is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. To prevent these pests, keep the plant well-watered and avoid overcrowding. If you do notice an infestation, treat it with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Aralia Cordata Sun King is native to Japan, Korea, and China and grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and along riverbanks. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of soil types and climatic conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Aralia Cordata Sun King a fast-growing plant?
A: The Aralia Cordata Sun King is a slow-growing plant that can take several years to reach its full size.
Q: Can the Aralia Cordata Sun King be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the Aralia Cordata Sun King is an excellent choice for container gardening. Just be sure to use well-draining soil and keep the plant well-watered.
Q: Is the Aralia Cordata Sun King toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the Aralia Cordata Sun King is toxic to pets if ingested. Keep the plant out of reach of pets and children.
Q: Does the Aralia Cordata Sun King attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces small white flowers in late summer that attract bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Aralia elata
- Aralia spinosa
- Aralia racemosa
- Aralia continentalis
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Aralia Cordata ‘Sun King’. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c640
- Plant Delights Nursery. (n.d.). Aralia Cordata ‘Sun King’. Retrieved from https://www.plantdelights.com/products/aralia-cordata-sun-king
- RHS. (2021). Aralia Cordata ‘Sun King’. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/58525/Aralia-cordata-Sun-King/Details
