10 Seeds Aralia cordata (Hardy Spikenard) Perennial Vegetable Udo Plant

Introducing Aralia cordata, also known as Hardy Spikenard or Udo, a remarkable perennial vegetable prized for its crisp, aromatic shoots that emerge each spring. This hardy plant develops a bold, clumping habit with large, dark green compound leaves, creating a striking tropical effect in shaded borders, woodland gardens, or container displays.
Cultivate Udo for its delicious, edible young shoots, which are perfect for salads, stir-fries, or pickling, offering a delicate, slightly sweet flavor. It prefers cool, consistently moist, humus-rich soil and thrives in partial to full shade, making it an excellent choice for challenging areas. Once established, this long-lived perennial returns annually, providing a unique culinary harvest and ornamental presence for years to come.
Species: Aralia cordata
Variety: Not applicable
Type: Perennial vegetable
Plant Habit: Upright, clumping
Sun: Partial to full shade
Soil: Rich, moist, well-drained
Days to Harvest: Approx. 120-180 days to maturity; shoots harvested in spring (year 2 and beyond)
Zones: 4-9
Germination: Cold stratify for 2-4 weeks, then sow; germination can be slow and erratic.
Sowing: Sow 1/4 inch deep in moist seed-starting mix; keep warm and consistently damp.
Spacing: 36-48 inches apart
Notes: Edible shoots; ornamental foliage; benefits from winter chill.