Contents
Description
Eleutherococcus sieboldianus, commonly known as five-leaved aralia or bushy five-leaf, is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, Korea, and China. It belongs to the Araliaceae family, which includes other popular plants like ivy, ginseng, and schefflera. The plant can grow up to 8 feet tall and 5 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for hedges and borders.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Eleutherococcus |
Appearance
The five-leaved aralia has a distinct foliage of five leaflets, which are oval-shaped and finely toothed. The leaves are dark green and can turn yellow in the fall. The plant produces small white flowers in the summer and red berries in the fall, which attract birds. The branches are spiny, making it effective as a barrier plant.
Care Guide
Eleutherococcus sieboldianus is a low-maintenance plant, but it still requires proper care to thrive. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
- Sunlight: The plant can grow in full sun to partial shade. However, it prefers partial shade in hot climates.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eleutherococcus sieboldianus is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause leaf curling and wilting. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Spray the plant with water to discourage them.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control it.
Habitat
Eleutherococcus sieboldianus is native to East Asia, where it grows in the understory of forests and on hillsides. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. The plant is also cultivated as an ornamental in gardens and parks in many parts of the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Eleutherococcus sieboldianus grow in full sun?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in full sun, but it prefers partial shade in hot climates.
Q: How often should I water my five-leaved aralia?
A: Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Is Eleutherococcus sieboldianus deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is generally deer-resistant, but it may still be eaten by deer if there is not enough food available.
Q: When is the best time to prune my five-leaved aralia?
A: Prune the plant in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches and shape the plant as desired.
Related Plants
- Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian ginseng)
- Eleutherococcus sessiliflorus (Dwarf five-leaf aralia)
- Eleutherococcus sieboldii (Siebold’s five-leaf aralia)
- Polyscias filicifolia (Fernleaf aralia)
References
- “Eleutherococcus sieboldianus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287466. Accessed 1 July 2021.
- “Five-leaved Aralia.” Chicago Botanic Garden, www.chicagobotanic.org/plantcollections/plantfinder/eleutherococcus_sieboldianus–five_leaved_aralia. Accessed 1 July 2021.
- “Eleutherococcus sieboldianus.” Plant Information Online, https://plantinfo.umn.edu/node/1430709. Accessed 1 July 2021.
