Aralia racemosa aka Indianroot
Taxonomy
Aralia racemosa, also known as American spikenard, small spikenard, Indian root, spice berry, spignet, life-of-man, and petty morel, is an ornamental plant in the Araliaceae family. This herbaceous plant can reach heights of 1 to 2 meters and is commonly found in shady areas across the United States and Canada. It features small white flowers that form spherical clusters of red-purple-black berries, showcasing its relation to Ivy. American Spikenard is a rare houseplant that thrives with regular watering and prefers long-lasting, direct light within 1 foot of a window. It requires well-draining soil and benefits from repotting when it doubles in size. Belonging to the Aralia genus, this plant is native to North America.
Common names
Indianroot, Life Of Man, Old Man's Root, American Spikenard, Small SpikenardHow to care for Indianroot
Difficulty
Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Indianroot due to its easy-going nature.
Water
Indianroot should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Indianroot loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Toxicity
The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.
Fertilizer
The growth rate of Indianroot is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.
Region of origin
Indianroot’s native range is Eastern N. America - Quebec to Georgia, west to Kansas and Minnesota.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Aralia Genus
Aralia cordata Udo
Aralia nudicaulis Wild Sarsaparilla
Aralia spinosa American Angelica Tree
Aralia hispida Dwarf Elder
Aralia Spikenard
Aralia chinensis Chinese Angelica Tree
Aralia elata Japanese Angelica Tree
Aralia continentalis Manchurian Spikenard
