Sun King Japanese Spikenard
Aralia cordata 'Sun King'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
48 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Japan, Korea
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Aralia cordata 'Sun King' is known for its vibrant, golden-yellow leaves that brighten shady spots in the garden. This cultivar is particularly noted for its unusual golden foliage, which provides a striking contrast against darker plants.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck young plants into well-draining soil in spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Mist cuttings to maintain humidity during propagation.
- Fertilize monthly during the growing season for lush growth.
- Divide established clumps in early spring or fall every 2-3 years.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Use organic compost to enrich soil and promote vigorous growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently, especially during dry spells 🌱
- Prune dead or damaged stems to encourage healthy new growth
- Apply balanced fertilizer in spring and summer
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don't expose to harsh afternoon sun in very hot climates
- Refrain from disturbing roots during the growing season
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| 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
Sun King Japanese Spikenard questions
What zones can Sun King Japanese Spikenard grow in?
Sun King 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 Sun King Japanese Spikenard deer resistant?
Yes — Sun King Japanese Spikenard is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Sun King Japanese Spikenard bloom?
Sun King Japanese Spikenard typically blooms in late summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Sun King Japanese Spikenard need full sun?
Sun King Japanese Spikenard does best in part shade.
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Grow Sun King 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.
