Contents
Description
Eleutherococcus Sessiliflorus, also known as Eleutherococcus sieboldianus or five-leaf aralia, is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, China, and Korea. It belongs to the Araliaceae family and is closely related to ginseng. The plant can grow up to 10 feet in height and has a spread of 8 feet. The leaves are compound, with five leaflets that are dark green and glossy. The flowers are small and white, and they bloom in late summer. The fruit is a dark purple berry that ripens in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Eleutherococcus |
| Species | Eleutherococcus Sessiliflorus |
Appearance
Eleutherococcus Sessiliflorus has a dense, upright growth habit and can be used as a hedge or screen plant. The leaves are compound, with five leaflets that are 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The leaflets are glossy and dark green, and they turn yellow in the fall. The flowers are small, white, and appear in late summer in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a dark purple berry that is 1/4 inch in diameter and ripens in the fall.
Care Guide
Water
Eleutherococcus Sessiliflorus prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize Eleutherococcus Sessiliflorus in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize in the fall, as this can stimulate new growth that may not have time to harden off before winter.
Soil
Eleutherococcus Sessiliflorus prefers well-drained, acidic soil. Amend heavy clay soil with organic matter to improve drainage.
Sunlight
Eleutherococcus Sessiliflorus prefers partial shade to full sun. In areas with hot summers, provide afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch.
Hardiness Zones
Eleutherococcus Sessiliflorus is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eleutherococcus Sessiliflorus is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and leaf spot. Treat pests with insecticidal soap and diseases with a copper fungicide.
Habitat
Eleutherococcus Sessiliflorus is native to Japan, China, and Korea. It grows in forests and thickets in mountainous areas. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eleutherococcus Sessiliflorus invasive?
A: No, Eleutherococcus Sessiliflorus is not considered invasive.
Q: Is Eleutherococcus Sessiliflorus deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Eleutherococcus Sessiliflorus is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Eleutherococcus Sessiliflorus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Eleutherococcus Sessiliflorus can be grown in containers, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: Can Eleutherococcus Sessiliflorus be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Eleutherococcus Sessiliflorus can be propagated from cuttings in the summer.
Related Plants
- Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian ginseng)
- Aralia elata (Japanese angelica tree)
- Panax ginseng (Asian ginseng)
- Panax quinquefolius (American ginseng)
References
- American Horticultural Society. (2011). AHS A-Z encyclopedia of garden plants. New York, NY: DK Publishing.
- Dirr, M. A. (2011). Dirr’s encyclopedia of trees and shrubs. Portland, OR: Timber Press.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Eleutherococcus sessiliflorus. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b930
