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American Spikenard

Aralia racemosa

American spikenard is a bold, shrub-like woodland perennial with large divided leaves, airy sprays of tiny flowers, and dark purple berries relished by birds. A dramatic native for rich shade.

Family
Araliaceae
Type
wildflower
Lifespan
perennial
Height
3–6 ft
Spacing
3–5 ft apart
Light
part shade, shade
Soil moisture
moist
Soil pH
neutral, acidic
Bloom
June, July, August
Bloom colors
white, green
Wildlife value
pollinators, songbirds, mammals
Landscape uses
border
Native states
AR, CT, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, WV