Eleutherococcus sieboldianus aka Fiveleaf Aralia

Eleutherococcus sieboldianus is a deciduous shrub in the ginseng family, Araliaceae. Its common names include fiveleaf aralia and ukogi. Despite these names, it does not belong to the genus Aralia. It comes from eastern China, including Anhui province. It grows in woods, hedges, and along forest edges. People have introduced it to Japan, Korea, and North America. In Japan, it has escaped gardens and grows on calcareous soils.

Garden plants reach about 6–10 feet [1.8–3 metres] tall. Their spread reaches about 8–10 feet [2.4–3 metres]. RHS gives a smaller range of 5–8 feet [1.5–2.5 metres] for both. Young plants have long, curved branches that can droop. Older branches stand more upright, forming a rounded shrub. Sharp spines grow below the leaves and along the branches. The brown-grey bark has cracks and a rough, warty surface. Bright green leaves divide into leaflets around a central point. Sources report three to seven leaflets per leaf. Each leaflet has toothed edges and a pointed tip. Leaves turn yellow in autumn, without a strong colour display.

Small green-white flowers open in May and June. They form umbels but make little visual impact. Male and female flowers grow on separate plants. Fruit needs both sexes, while shops sell mostly female shrubs. Small black berries appear in July and August. They grow in round clusters and contain two to five seeds. Fruit production can be sparse, but the berries add summer interest.

This shrub grows in sun, partial shade, or deep shade. RHS favours sun, while other sources favour shade. It accepts clay, sand, loam, and chalk with good drainage. Acid, neutral, and alkaline soils suit it. Moist soil supports growth, but established plants withstand drought. Poor soil and urban pollution cause few problems. Sources place it in USDA zones 4–8 or 4–9. RHS rates its hardiness H6. It needs little care and tolerates hard pruning. Root suckers can spread the planting.

Spines make it useful for hedges, screens, and barriers. It also suits shrub borders and shaded woodland plantings. It attracts birds and butterflies, and deer tend to avoid it. Sources report few serious pests or diseases. PFAF lists cooked young leaves as food. Dried leaves can serve as a tea substitute. PFAF reports no known hazards or medicinal uses. The sharp spines remain a handling risk.