Aralia racemosa aka Indianroot

Aralia racemosa is known as American spikenard. It belongs to the ginseng family, Araliaceae. This perennial comes from central and eastern Canada and the United States. It grows in rich woods and thickets across this range. Wild plants also grow on shaded slopes, ravines, and moist ledges. It looks like a shrub but has soft, leafy stems. Its foliage falls away at the end of the season.

Garden plants often reach 3–5 feet [0.9–1.5 metres] tall. RHS gives a taller range, reaching 8.2 feet [2.5 metres]. Rare plants reach 10 feet [3 metres]. The spread reaches about 5 feet [1.52 metres]. Dark maroon to almost black stems branch from large, scented roots. Large compound leaves divide into two or three pinnate sections. The plant forms clumps and spreads through creeping rhizomes. Seeds can also help it form thickets over time.

Small white to greenish-white flowers grow in large, branched clusters. Missouri Botanical Garden lists bloom from June to August. Chicago Botanic Garden also records flowers in May. The fruits turn purple-black as they ripen in late summer. Their clusters add interest into fall. Birds and mammals eat the fruit. The dense leaves give wildlife cover. Chicago Botanic Garden also lists this plant as deer-resistant.

Grow it in moist soil that drains well. Part shade suits it, though sources also list sun or full shade. Rich loam with plenty of humus gives good growing conditions. It also tolerates rocky soil and clay. Shelter helps protect the large leaves from strong winds. Sources list USDA zones 3–8 and UK hardiness H4. Care needs are low, and plants tolerate some drought. Grow new plants from seed, division, or root cuttings. Use it alone or in groups in woodland and native gardens.

Leaf spots, aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites may occur. RHS notes possible honey fungus risk but lacks firm susceptibility data. Handling roots or bark may trigger allergic skin reactions. PFAF lists fruit, leaves, shoots, and roots as edible. The fruit has the most pleasant taste. Other parts can taste harsh, even after cooking. The plant also has a history of herbal use. These records do not establish that medicinal use is safe or effective.