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Description
Oplopanax Horridus, commonly known as Devil’s Club, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the ginseng family (Araliaceae). It is native to the temperate rainforests of western North America, including Alaska, British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and California. The plant can grow up to 4 meters tall and has large, palmate leaves with spines on the stem. The stem and roots are also covered in spines, making it a difficult plant to handle.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Oplopanax |
Appearance
Oplopanax Horridus has large, palmate leaves that can reach up to 30 cm in diameter. The leaves have 5-9 lobes and are dark green in color. The stem and roots are covered in spines, which can cause skin irritation if touched. The plant produces small, white flowers in the summer, which later turn into red berries in the fall. The berries are edible but have a bitter taste.
Care Guide
Oplopanax Horridus requires well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun exposure. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clay. The plant prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Fertilization is not necessary but can be done in the spring with an organic fertilizer. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oplopanax Horridus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by root rot if the soil is too wet or if it is planted in poorly drained soil. The plant can also be attacked by aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Oplopanax Horridus grows in moist, shaded areas of the temperate rainforests of western North America. It can be found in Alaska, British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and California. The plant is commonly found in the understory of the forest, along streams and rivers, and in wetlands.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Devil’s Club a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Devil’s Club has been used by Native American tribes for its medicinal properties. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and immune-boosting effects.
Q: Can Devil’s Club be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, Devil’s Club can be propagated by taking stem cuttings in the spring or summer. The cuttings should be rooted in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a partially shaded area until they establish roots.
Q: Is Devil’s Club a threatened species?
A: No, Devil’s Club is not considered a threatened species. However, its habitat is threatened by logging, mining, and development in some areas.
Q: Can Devil’s Club be used for culinary purposes?
A: Yes, the berries of Devil’s Club can be used to make jams, jellies, and syrups. However, they have a bitter taste and should be cooked before consumption.
Related Plants
- Eleutherococcus Senticosus (Siberian Ginseng)
- Panax Ginseng (Asian Ginseng)
- Panax Quinquefolius (American Ginseng)
- Aralia Spinosa (Devil’s Walkingstick)
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2019). Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Timber Press.
- Moerman, D. E. (1998). Native American Ethnobotany. Timber Press.
- USDA Plants Database: Oplopanax Horridus. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=OPHO
