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Description
Aralia Elata Variegata, also known as the Japanese angelica tree, is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, Korea, and China. It is part of the Araliaceae family and is a popular ornamental plant due to its striking variegated foliage. The leaves are large, reaching up to 3 feet in length, and are a mix of green, cream, and white. In the summer, Aralia Elata Variegata produces small white flowers that turn into dark purple berries in the fall. This plant can grow up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for gardens and landscapes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Aralia |
Appearance
Aralia Elata Variegata is a stunning plant that can add beauty and character to any garden. Its large variegated leaves are the most striking feature of the plant, with their mix of green, cream, and white colors. The leaves are pinnately compound and can grow up to 3 feet in length. In the summer, Aralia Elata Variegata produces small white flowers in large clusters that are followed by dark purple berries in the fall. The plant can grow up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for creating a focal point in a garden or landscape.
Care Guide
Aralia Elata Variegata is a relatively easy plant to care for, and with proper maintenance, it can thrive in most gardens. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Aralia Elata Variegata prefers moist soil, so it is essential to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.- Fertilization: Feed Aralia Elata Variegata with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in the winter.- Soil: Aralia Elata Variegata prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types but prefers slightly acidic soil.- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full shade, but its growth will be slower.- Hardiness Zones: Aralia Elata Variegata is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aralia Elata Variegata is generally a healthy and robust plant that is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, like any plant, it can still be affected by some problems. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and browning of leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to control them.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Aralia Elata Variegata is native to Japan, Korea, and China, where it grows in forests, thickets, and rocky slopes. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun. In its native habitat, it can grow up to 50 feet tall.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Aralia Elata Variegata be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Aralia Elata Variegata can be grown in a container. However, it will need a large pot to accommodate its size, and it may require more frequent watering and fertilization than if it were planted in the ground.
Q: Can Aralia Elata Variegata be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Aralia Elata Variegata can be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and out of direct sunlight until new growth appears.
Q: How often should I prune my Aralia Elata Variegata?
A: Prune your Aralia Elata Variegata in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged branches and thin out the plant to improve air circulation. You can also prune to shape the plant or control its size.
Q: Does Aralia Elata Variegata attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the plant’s berries can attract birds and other wildlife.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to consider if you like Aralia Elata Variegata:- Aralia cordata- Fatsia japonica- Schefflera actinophylla- Tetrapanax papyrifer
References
– “Aralia elata variegata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=263431.- “Aralia elata variegata.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/98468/Aralia-elata-Variegata/Details.- “Japanese Angelica Tree.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/japanese-angelica-tree-3269358.
