Aralia Elata

Description

Aralia Elata, also known as Japanese angelica tree, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Araliaceae family. It is native to China, Korea, and Japan and is known for its ornamental value. The tree can grow up to 60 feet tall and 40 feet wide and it has a broad, spreading canopy. The bark of the tree is greyish-brown and can peel off in thin strips. The leaves are large, dark green, and glossy, composed of smaller leaflets, and can be up to 3 feet long. In the fall, the leaves of Aralia Elata turn a beautiful yellow and orange color, adding to the tree’s ornamental value.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Aralia Elata is a striking tree that can add beauty and elegance to any garden. The tree has a broad, spreading canopy that can provide ample shade during the hot summer months. The leaves of the tree are large, dark green, and glossy, and can be up to 3 feet long. The leaves are composed of smaller leaflets, giving them a delicate and intricate appearance. In the fall, the leaves of Aralia Elata turn a beautiful yellow and orange color, making the tree even more attractive. The bark of the tree is greyish-brown and can peel off in thin strips, adding texture and interest to the tree’s appearance.

Care Guide

Aralia Elata is a relatively low-maintenance tree that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here’s a brief guide on how to care for Aralia Elata:

Water: Aralia Elata prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water the tree regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.

Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.

Soil: Aralia Elata can grow in a variety of soil types, but prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.

Sunlight: Aralia Elata can grow in full sun to partial shade. However, it prefers partial shade, especially during the hot summer months.

Hardiness Zones: Aralia Elata can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Aralia Elata is generally a healthy and disease-resistant tree. However, it can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases, including:

Pests: Spider mites, scale insects, and aphids can infest Aralia Elata. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests.

Diseases: Aralia Elata can be susceptible to leaf spot, powdery mildew, and canker. Prune infected branches and use a fungicide to control these diseases.

Habitat

Aralia Elata is native to China, Korea, and Japan and grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, riverbanks, and rocky slopes. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Aralia Elata grow in full sun?

A: Yes, Aralia Elata can grow in full sun to partial shade. However, it prefers partial shade, especially during the hot summer months.

Q: How tall can Aralia Elata grow?

A: Aralia Elata can grow up to 60 feet tall and 40 feet wide.

Q: What are the common pests that infest Aralia Elata?

A: Spider mites, scale insects, and aphids can infest Aralia Elata.

Q: What is the hardiness zone of Aralia Elata?

A: Aralia Elata can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.

Related Plants

Here are some plants that are related to Aralia Elata:

• Aralia Cordata
• Aralia Spinosa
• Aralia Nudicaulis
• Aralia Californica

References

• “Aralia Elata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l620
• “Aralia Elata.” Plant Care Today. https://plantcaretoday.com/aralia-elata.html
• “Aralia Elata.” Home Guides. https://homeguides.sfgate.com/aralia-elata-78522.html