Eleutherococcus trifoliatus aka Bai Le

Eleutherococcus trifoliatus is a shrub in the Araliaceae family. It is deciduous, which means it sheds its leaves each year. Its native range runs from Nepal to southern China and northern Indochina. It also grows in Taiwan and the Philippines. It grows in scrub, along roads, and beside forests. Wild plants grow in valleys and on mountain slopes. Its range spans cool mountain sites and parts of the tropics.

The shrub has prickly stems and may grow upright. It can also scramble or climb through nearby growth. Garden sources give a height of about 20 feet [6 metres]. One other account notes plants reaching 23 feet [7 metres]. All parts of the plant have a strong scent. The supplied species accounts give no details about flowers or fruit. They give no size for its spread when full-grown.

Grow it in full sun, which gives its preferred light. It also accepts light shade, such as at woodland edges. It prefers warm loam rich in humus, with good drainage. Keep the soil moist; do not choose a dry site. It can also grow in sandy soil and clay. It accepts ground that is mildly acid, neutral, or mildly alkaline. Poor soil and urban air pollution do not rule it out. Shelter it from cold north and east winds. Reports place its cold tolerance near 5–14°F [-15 to -10°C]. PFAF lists USDA zones 6–9, but wind shelter still matters.

Its scent gives it a role in a woodland garden. Sunny edges and spots with dappled shade suit its stated needs. People gather wild plants for food and medicine. Tai villages in southern Yunnan also grow it as a vegetable. Cooks use the young leaves after cooking them. Growers in Vietnam raise it for use in medicine. Folk remedies use its root and stem bark for joint pain. Other reported uses include back pain, coughs, and nerve pain. These records show past use, not proof that treatments work. The sources report no known hazards. They give no safety evidence specific to pets.

Growing plants from seed can take time, even after warm and cold treatment. For best results, sow fresh seed in autumn in a cold frame. Protect young plants through their first winter. You can also use stem cuttings, root cuttings, and dormant suckers to grow new plants. The supplied accounts name no specific pests or diseases.