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Aralia elata is a plant that is native to eastern asia. it is a member of the family araliaceae, and is also known as the oriental aralia or japanese aralia. the plant grows to a height of 15–20 m, and has large, compound leaves. the flowers are small and white, and the fruit is a black drupe.

Also called

• Aralia elata
  
• Spikenard
  
• American spikenard
  
• Sweet sop
  
• Aralia cordata

Good to Know

• Aralia elata is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to eastern Asia.
  
• It is also known as the Japanese angelica tree or the Korean angelica tree.
  
• The plant can grow to a height of 15 meters (50 feet).
  
• The leaves are large and compound, with each leaflet being 7-10 cm (3-4 inches) long.
  
• The flowers are small and white, growing in clusters.
  
• The fruit is a black drupe, about 1 cm (0.4 inches) in diameter.
  
• The plant is used in traditional Chinese medicine for a variety of purposes, including the treatment of colds and flu, arthritis, and menstrual cramps.
  
• Aralia elata contains a number of compounds that are known to have medicinal properties, including aralin, an aromatic compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
  
• The plant is also a source of wood used in the construction of furniture and musical instruments.
  
• In Japan, the plant is known as toki and is considered to be a symbol of good luck.

Related plant:
Aralia Japonica

Growing Steps

1. For aralia elata, first step is to plant the seeds.
   
2. Next, water the planting area consistently to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
   
3. When the seedlings emerge, thin them out so that they are spaced about 6 to 8 inches apart.
   
4. Fertilize the aralia elata seedlings monthly with a balanced fertilizer.
   
5. As the seedlings grow, provide support to the stems so that they do not flop over.
   
6. Once the plants are established, cut back on the watering frequency but make sure the soil does not dry out completely.
   
7. In late summer, mulch around the base of the plants to help protect the roots during the winter months.
   
8. Late in the fall, cut the plants back to about 6 inches in height.
   
9. The following spring, fertilize the aralia elata plants monthly and water as needed to keep the soil moist.
   
10. Enjoy the beautiful, lacy foliage and delicate flowers of your aralia elata plants!

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, aralia elata prefers rich, moist soil that is well-drained. It does not like overly wet or dry conditions. This plant is also pretty tolerant of different soil types, as long as the soil is not waterlogged. It can grow in both full sun and partial shade, though it does best in partial shade.

Light condition

Not too different with other members of the Aralia family, the elata enjoys bright, indirect sunlight. It's the perfect plant to brighten up a dark corner in your home. If you can provide at least four hours of sunlight per day, your elata will be happy.

The Temperature

The temperature condition that aralia elata grows best in is a cool to warm temperature. They can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but prefer it to be on the cooler side. They can also tolerate a range of humidity levels, but prefer it to be on the drier side.

Ideal Humidity

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 40%. If the humidity gets too low, the leaves will start to turn brown and curl up. If the humidity gets too high, the leaves will start to yellow and drop off.

Fertilizer Requirement

Discussing fertilizer, usually the plant nutrient most needed by a plant is nitrogen. Aralia elata, also known as the Japaneseangelica tree, is a deciduous shrub that is a part of the Araliaceae, or ginseng, family. Like other members of this family, the Japaneseangelica tree has a deep root system. When applying fertilizer, be sure to use one with a higher nitrogen content. Nitrogen is necessary for the growth of leaves and the production of chlorophyll.

Light requirement

Pruning aralia elata is crucial to preserving its health and preventing it from becoming overgrown. This can be done by carefully removing any dead or damaged leaves and stems. It is also important to trim back any overgrown branches to promote new growth. When pruning, be sure to use sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.

Plant Propagation

Propagation of Aralia elata is best done by seed, which should be sown in a cold frame in early spring. The seedlings can be transplanted into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer. Cuttings of half-ripe wood can also be taken in late summer and these will root readily in a cold frame.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate in average 1.5 ft to 2ft per season. It is a fast growing plant that can achieve a height of 60-90 ft in 10 years. It has a deep taproot and is very drought tolerant. It can be found in full sun or partial shade and prefers moist, well drained soil.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant plants are over- watering, under- watering, and too much sun exposure. Over- watering can lead to root rot, while under- watering can cause the leaves to turn yellow and the plant to wilt. Too much sun exposure can cause the leaves to scorch.

Tips on Growing

• Do not forget to water your aralia elata plant regularly. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
  
• Place your aralia elata plant in an area with bright indirect sunlight.
  
• Fertilize your aralia elata plant monthly using a balanced fertilizer.
  
• Prune your aralia elata plant as needed to keep it looking tidy and to encourage new growth.
  
• Keep an eye out for pests and diseases. Treat immediately if you notice any problems.
  
• Repot your aralia elata plant every two years or so to refresh the potting mix.
  
• Overwatering is the most common cause of problems with aralia elata plants. Make sure you are not guilty of this!
  
• Make sure your aralia elata plant has good drainage. standing water can quickly kill the plant.
  
• Be patient! Aralia elata plants can take several years to reach

Substitution

• Aralia californica
  
• Aralia cordata
  
• Aralia discourteosa
  
• Aralia elegans
  
• Aralia hispida
  
• Aralia humilis
  
• Aralia japonica
  
• Aralia nudicaulis
  
• Aralia racemosa
  
• Aralia spinosa

Source:
Aralia elata (Araliaceae) - HEAR species info
Japanese angelica tree : Aralia elata - Araliaceae (Ginseng) - MISIN
Aralia elata information from the Global Compendium of Weeds …