Eleutherococcus spinosus

Eleutherococcus spinosus is a deciduous shrub in the Araliaceae family. It comes from temperate Japan and grows on Honshu. Plants For A Future also lists Kyushu within its range. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. The shrub reaches about 10 feet [3 metres] in height. It has smaller leaves than Eleutherococcus sieboldianus, according to Plants For A Future. Some botanists have treated the two as one species. It is also often confused with Eleutherococcus divaricatus.

The flowers appear from July to August. Each flower has both male and female organs. The supplied species records give no flower colour or fruit details. They also provide no clear account of bark or stem features. Garden uses include hedges and the edges of woodland gardens. It can grow along sunny edges or in dappled shade. These settings suit its tolerance of both sun and partial shade.

For cultivation, choose moist soil that drains well. Plants For A Future favours a warm site with humus-rich loam. The shrub also accepts sandy soils and heavy clay. It tolerates poor soil and air pollution. Soil can range from mildly acid to mildly alkaline. Full sun is preferred, though partial shade is suitable. Shelter from cold north and east winds helps protect the plant. The source reports survival at least down to 5°F [−15°C] with shelter. It lists USDA hardiness zones 4–8.

Leaves and young buds have recorded food uses when cooked. Dried leaves can also serve as a tea substitute. The source does not confirm that the seeds are edible. Plants For A Future reports no known hazards. That statement does not establish safety for pets or every use. Traditional medicine uses the root bark for pain and weakness. Reported uses also include rheumatic pain and root-based tonic wine. These are records of use, not proof of benefit.

Propagation options include seed, stem cuttings, root cuttings, and suckers. Sow fresh seed in autumn in a cold frame. Stored seed needs warm treatment followed by cold treatment. Germination can take a long time. Keep young seedlings under cover through their first winter. Plant them out in late spring or early summer. Separate suckers while the plant is dormant.