50 Seeds American Spikenard Aralia racemosa Shade Woodland Perennial

American Spikenard is a woodland perennial known for its bold, tropical-looking foliage and graceful arching stems that bring texture and structure to shaded borders and naturalized gardens. It forms a substantial clump over time and produces small greenish-white flower clusters in summer that mature into ornamental reddish-purple berries in autumn.

This species works well planted along woodland edges, in shaded perennial beds, and in moist naturalized areas where its architectural presence can be appreciated. It grows best in rich, consistently moist soil with dappled shade, and its berries and foliage provide seasonal interest through late summer and fall. It pairs nicely with ferns, hostas, and other shade-loving companions.
Species: Aralia racemosa
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Plant_Habit: Upright clumping
Sun: Partial shade to full shade
Soil: Rich, moist, well-drained
Zones: 4 to 8
Germination: Cold stratification recommended; sow on surface and keep moist
Sowing: Surface sow, lightly press into soil
Spacing: 24 to 36 inches
Notes: Slow to establish but long-lived once settled