BlueBell Arboretum & Nursery

Mail order trees, shrubs, conifers and woody climbers

Description

A deciduous species native to North America, Aralia spinosa 'Hercules Club' is similar in some respects to Aralia elata, with ornamental bright green, bi-pinnate leaves. These leaves are large and turn shades of deep golden-yellow before falling in autumn. The stems are covered with many sturdy spines, giving rise to the evocative common name. In late summer this has large, showy flower panicles once established. An unusual and fascinating garden plant!

Features

• Common name: Devils Walking stick.
• Position: Warm, full sun or shade in a position sheltered from strong winds.
• Soil: Any well drained, fertile soil.
• Hardiness: Reasonably hardy. The young foliage can be damaged by late frost and this is best planted in a position out of early morning sunlight.
• Flowering Period: August - September
• Flower Colour: White
• Rate of Growth: Slow to moderate
• Habit: Large shrub or small branching tree.
• Height: 6 m (20 ft)
• Spread: 5 m (16 ft)
• Notes: We have a specimen of Aralia spinosa 'Hercules Club' , planted in the woodland garden surrounding our nursery. It is 10 years old, has reached a height of 3 m, a spread of 2 m and is shown in the photos below. This garden is open to the public and the plant can be viewed all year round. This plant can sucker and these should be gently removed yearly to keep the Aralia growing with a single stem if required
• Supplied Size: 3L container