Devil's walking stick (Aralia spinosa) ah-RAY-lee-ah spin-OH-sah Genus:  Aralia The textural quality of this eastern native's stems and foliage is superb. During winter, a circle of the thorn-covered stems is as magical as an outdoor sculpture. Dark blue-green compound leaves offer a tropical effect before turning yellow and purple in autumn. One-foot-wide flower clusters sit atop the foliage in summer and transform into purple-black fruits that attract birds. Aralia spinosa grows to 30 feet tall and spreads indefinitely. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Handling bark and roots may cause allergic skin reactions. Attracts birds. Thorns lend strong winter interest. Care:  Provide full sun to part shade and moist, but well drained-soil. Plant in an area where contact with the thorns is unlikely. Promptly remove suckers to prevent unwanted naturalization. Propagation:  This plant is easy to start from seed, by division, or from root cuttings. Problems:  Generally trouble-free, but watch for leaf spots, aphids, and mealybugs. It may be somewhat invasive.

Overview

Height 15 ft. to 30 ft. Spread Over 30 ft. Growth Habit Spreads Growth Pace Fast Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Native, Showy Fall Foliage, Showy Flowers, Showy Foliage, Showy Fruit Bloom Time Early Summer, Late Summer, Summer Flower Color White Uses Beds and Borders, Naturalizing Style Woodland Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Shrubs