Plant Details

Aralia nudicaulis

Wild Sarsaparilla

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Explore the size, hardiness, soil, light, edible uses and harvest period of Aralia nudicaulis.

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General Information

Scientific name: Aralia nudicaulis
Also known as: Wild Sarsaparilla

Plant Properties

Layer: Herbaceous
Size: Medium
Height: 0.40 m
Width: 0.30 m
Growth Rate: Moderate
Leaf: Deciduous

Growth conditions

USDA Hardiness: 4-8
Soil Moisture:
Moist
Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
pH:
Acidic Neutral
Light:
Shade, Partial shade

Usage properties

Edible part:
Leaves, Shoots, Fruit, Root, Condiment, Tea
Edibility:
(4)
Medicinal:
(3)
Features:
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