Aralia nudicaulis
Plant Details
General Information
Scientific name:
Aralia nudicaulis
Also known as:
Wild Sarsaparilla
Images:
Google Images
Plant Properties
Layer:
Herb layer
Format:
Medium
Height:
0.40 m
Width:
0.30 m
Growth Rate:
Moderate
Leaf:
Deciduous
Growth conditions
USDA Hardiness:
4-8
Soil Moisture:
Moist
Moist
Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
pH:
Acid Neutral
Acid Neutral
Light:
Shadow, Half shade
Shadow, Half shade
Usage properties
Edible part:
Leaves, Sprouts, Fruit, Root, Condiment, Tea
Leaves, Sprouts, Fruit, Root, Condiment, Tea
Edibility:
Medicinal:
Features:
None
None
Description
The rootstock of this plant is used as a flavoring, often as a substitute for sarsaparilla and for making 'root beer.' It can also serve as emergency food: usually mixed with oil, it has a sweet, spicy flavor and pleasant aroma. It is nutritious and was used by Native Americans during wars or hunting due to its nutritional value. The young shoots can be cooked as a vegetable. A refreshing herbal tea with a pleasant taste is made from the root. The roots are boiled until the water turns a reddish-brown color. Jelly is also made from the fruits, which have a diameter of about 6 mm and look like round, purple-black berries. The fruits can also be used to make wine.
Harvest Data
Start Harvest:
01/05
End of Harvest:
30/09
Guilds
Guild Information
Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.
Guild Details
| Guild | Description |
|---|---|
|
Amelanchier alnifolia Serviceberry |
Provides shade and attracts beneficial insects. |
|
Cornus canadensis Creeping dogwood |
Ground cover that helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. |
|
Cercis Canadensis Redbud |
Adds diversity to the habitat and helps in nutrient cycling. |
|
Rubus idaeus Raspberry |
Produces edible fruits and provides habitat for wildlife. |
|
Myrica gale Bog myrtle |
Helps with soil health and attracts pollinators. |