Devil's Walkingstick (Aralia spinosa)
Fall Species
This Species is typically available during our Fall Sale Preorders in August, and/or the in-person Fall Sale Mid-September through Mid-October at Geist Nursery in Fishers, IN.
Not Available
This species is not available this year. We hope to see it next Fall!
Estimated Height at Pickup: 4-5', 3 gal
A.k.a. Hercules club. A large rhizomatous shrub or small tree that produces plentiful berries widely enjoyed by birds! Enormous bunches of flowers smell faintly of lemon, but it is best known for its obvious thorns*. Generally adaptable, and is easily grown in moist, well drained loam. Tolerant of urban pollution and some drought once established. Spreads rapidly by seed and runners*. Large, compound leaves are vulnerable to breaking when not sheltered from wind.
Pollination: Self Pollinating
Light: Full Sun, Part Sun/Shade
Soil Moisture: Wet Mesic, Mesic
Soil Type: Adaptable
Height: 8’-30’
Width: 6’-10’
Bloom Color: White
Bloom Time: Jul-Aug
Fruit: Blue/black berries mature in fall.
Fall Color: Red
Root Type: Rhizome
Notable Wildlife Interactions: Flowers attract various bees. Hosts few insects, but at least one walking stick species. Berries are eaten by a wide variety of birds, including waxwings, thrushes, and sparrows, as well as black bear, fox, skunks, and chipmunks. Occasionally browsed by deer.
*You've been warned. Excellent candidate for a 'spite fence'.
Shipping Unavailable