Aralia spinosa

Devil's Walkingstick

Family:  Araliaceae
Zone:  6-9                               Average Size:  15’H x 6’W

Identification: Tall spiny trunk, seldom branched; large bipinnately leaf with tiny spines along rachis; large panicle of flowers above the foliage in late summer followed by purple fruit.

Note:  Most unusual species in form.  Basically a tall trunk that rarely branches, topped with a large wisp of flowers in summer. The spines found on the trunk and leaves can be treacherous.  Another plant that is difficult to place in the traditional landscape and probably should be reserved for naturalized settings in mass.

Campus Location:  Hilltop Arboretum