Devil's Walking Stick - Aralia spinosa
 
 
Devil's Walking Stick (Aralia spinosa) is a striking deciduous shrub or small tree native to eastern North America. It is known for its imposing appearance, featuring large, deeply lobed leaves and stout, spiny stems that give it a unique and formidable presence in the landscape.
In summer, Devil's Walking Stick produces clusters of small, white flowers that are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators. These flowers give way to clusters of small, dark purple berries that persist into fall, providing food for birds and wildlife.
Growing to heights of 15 to 30 feet tall, Devil's Walking Stick prefers moist, well-drained soils and partial shade to full sun conditions. It is adaptable to a range of soil types and can tolerate occasional flooding, making it suitable for wetland margins and naturalized areas.
In landscaping, Devil's Walking Stick is often used as a focal point or specimen plant due to its dramatic foliage and architectural structure. It adds texture and visual interest to woodland gardens, native plantings, and wildlife habitats. However, it should be planted with caution in areas frequented by people due to its spiny stems, which can cause irritation upon contact.
Overall, Devil's Walking Stick is valued for its ecological benefits, providing food and habitat for wildlife, as well as its ornamental qualities, making it a distinctive addition to gardens seeking unique native plants.
 
Photo: Emerson Sapienza