American spikenard, Aralia racemosa

Elevate your garden with the captivating American spikenard (Aralia racemosa). This unusual native perennial offers a blend of elegance and ecological benefit, making it a must-have for any discerning gardener. Known for its striking foliage and impressive flower clusters, Aralia racemosa adds a touch of exotic charm and texture to your garden landscape.

Reaching heights of 4 to 6 feet and spreading 3 to 4 feet wide, this plant forms a dramatic focal point with its large, deeply cut leaves and eye-catching, creamy-white flower umbels that bloom in late summer. These distinctive flowers are followed by clusters of dark, glossy berries that transition to a rich, deep purple as they mature, providing visual interest well into the fall.

Hardy in zones 3 through 8,  spikenard is a great choice for adding structure and depth to shaded or woodland gardens, and its robust nature means it requires minimal maintenance. Grows in full sun to part shade, and is drought tolerant once established. Spikenard is great for naturalizing and will eventually spread over time via seeds and rhizomes where it will form a thicket. 

One of the standout benefits of this plant is its appeal to wildlife. The plant’s flowers attract bees and other pollinators, while the berries provide a valuable food source for birds and small mammals. By incorporating Aralia racemosa into your garden, you not only enhance its beauty but also contribute to the health of local ecosystems.