Botanical Name: Aralia racemosa
Height: Tall
Season of bloom: Summer.
Growing Conditions: Light shade. Moist organic soil.
Wildlife benefits: Small but abundant fruits in fall feed many species of birds.
From Ottawa Valley or eastern Ontario sources: Yes
Remarks: Small green or white summer flowers are not showy – the fruit is the thing. I am often asked about its edibility. Other plants in this genus have medicinal properties, so I wouldn’t eat a large quantity, but the fruit is very pleasant to nibble on – it taste like root beer.
Similar species: Wild Sarsaparilla. You might also like to look at Pokeweed.
For information on availability or to return to the list of plants, please click Plants
Beaux Arbres Plantes Indigènes / Native Plants 