Japanese Spikenard
Aralia cordata
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
54 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moist
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Japan, Korea, China
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Aralia cordata is a deciduous perennial shrub characterized by large, pinnate, dark green leaves and clusters of small, creamy-white flowers that appear in late summer, followed by dark purple berries. This species is valued for its striking foliage and ability to thrive in shaded, woodland garden settings, providing both texture and height.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select a shaded location with moist, well-drained soil.
- Tuck seedlings into soil after the last frost, ensuring roots are moist.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during propagation.
- Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Transplant in early spring or fall for best establishment.
- Fertilize with a balanced organic fertilizer in spring.
Pro Tip
Ensure consistent moisture for healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Apply mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Prune dead or damaged stems in early spring
Don't
- Avoid over-fertilizing which can cause legginess ❌
- Do not expose to full sun, it prefers shade or partial shade
- Refrain from dry conditions that stress the plant
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Japanese Spikenard questions
What zones can Japanese Spikenard grow in?
Japanese Spikenard is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Japanese Spikenard deer resistant?
Yes — Japanese Spikenard is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Japanese Spikenard bloom?
Japanese Spikenard typically blooms in mid to late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Japanese Spikenard need full sun?
Japanese Spikenard does best in part shade.
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Keep exploring
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Grow Japanese Spikenard with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
