Aralia elata aka Japanese Angelica Tree

Aralia elata is known as the Japanese angelica tree. It belongs to the ginseng family, Araliaceae. Its native range covers much of eastern Asia. This includes eastern Russia, China, Taiwan, Korea, and Japan. It grows as a large shrub or small tree. It sheds its leaves each year and grows fast. Garden shrubs often reach 12–18 feet [3.7–5.5 metres]. Some reach 20 feet [6.1 metres]. Their width is often 6–10 feet [1.8–3 metres]. Larger trees can reach 45 feet [14 metres]. RHS gives a spread beyond 26 feet [8 metres].

Thick stems carry sharp prickles and have few side branches. The rough, grey bark bears large scars from old leaves. Large leaves spread out from the stem tips. Each leaf reaches 2–4 feet [0.6–1.2 metres] long. These green leaves are bipinnate or tripinnate, with many leaflets. The leaflets often have toothed edges. Autumn leaves may turn yellow or shades of red-purple. Yet some plants show little colour and drop leaves early. Bare stems can look coarse in winter.

Small white or cream flowers open from July to August. They form broad panicles at the ends of stems. These clusters are often wider than they are tall. Round drupes follow, turning purple to black as they ripen. Fruit develops in summer and matures into autumn. Birds and small mammals eat it and spread the seeds. The leaves, blooms, and fruit give interest through the growing season. Sources list shrub borders and woodland gardens as landscape uses.

This plant grows in sun or partial shade. It prefers rich, moist soil that drains well. It also grows in clay, sand, and rocky soil. It tolerates drought, varied soil pH, and urban pollution. Shelter from strong winds helps protect the large leaves. Sources rate it for USDA zones 4–9 and UK H5. Seeds, root cuttings, and divided suckers can produce new plants. Root suckers and seedlings can form dense stands. It is invasive in North Carolina and parts of the northeastern United States.

Its spread can make control a major task. Keep its sharp spines away from paths and busy spaces. Leaf spots, aphids, and mealybugs can cause problems. Honey fungus may pose a risk where already present. Handling roots or bark can trigger allergic skin reactions. PFAF lists leaves and young shoots as edible parts. People cook the shoots or blanch them for salads. They form part of food traditions in Japan and Korea.