Aralia Spinosa

Description

Aralia Spinosa is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Araliaceae family. It is commonly known as Devil’s Walking Stick due to its sharp thorns that can reach up to 6 inches in length. The plant is native to eastern North America and can grow up to 20 feet tall. The stem of the plant is covered with a smooth, green bark that can turn grayish-brown as it ages. The leaves are large, reaching up to 3 feet in length, and are composed of smaller leaflets. In the fall, the leaves turn a bright yellow color before falling off.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Aralia Spinosa has a unique appearance due to its large leaves and sharp thorns. The leaves are compound, meaning they are made up of smaller leaflets, and can reach up to 3 feet in length. The leaflets are oval-shaped and have a serrated edge. In the fall, the leaves turn a bright yellow color before falling off. The stem of the plant is covered with a smooth, green bark that can turn grayish-brown as it ages. The plant produces small, white flowers in the summer that are arranged in large clusters. These flowers are then followed by small, black berries that are loved by birds.

Care Guide

The Aralia Spinosa is a relatively low maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your Devil’s Walking Stick:

• Water: The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate some dryness. Water regularly, especially during dry spells.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: The plant can tolerate both full sun and partial shade, but it will grow best in partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in hardiness zones 4-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Aralia Spinosa is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be affected by spider mites, scale insects, and leaf spot diseases. To prevent these problems, keep the plant healthy by providing adequate water and fertilization. If you notice any pests or diseases, treat them immediately with an insecticide or fungicide.

Habitat

The Aralia Spinosa is native to eastern North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and wetlands. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.

Question and Answer

• Q: Is the Aralia Spinosa poisonous?
  A: No, the plant is not poisonous to humans or animals.
• Q: Can the plant be grown in a container?
  A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container, but it will need to be repotted every few years as it grows.
• Q: Does the plant attract wildlife?
  A: Yes, the plant’s berries are loved by birds and other wildlife.
• Q: How long does it take for the plant to grow to its full height?
  A: The plant can take up to 20 years to reach its full height of 20 feet.

Related Plants

• Aralia Cordata
• Aralia Elata
• Aralia Racemosa
• Aralia Nudicaulis

References

• Dirr, M. A. (2011). Manual of woody landscape plants: Their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Publishing.
• USDA Plants Database. (2021). Aralia spinosa. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=ARSP
• Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Aralia spinosa. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c780