Aralia elata
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Aralia elata

Japanese angelica tree · Chinese angelica · Japanese Aralia · Oni's Walking Stick · Korean Angelica Tree

Tier 1 Difficulty: medium Water: low Light: partial_sun
Temperature
5–35 °C
Soil pH
6–7
Hardiness
Zone 4–9
Click count
577
Observations
655

Description

Source: leafsnap

Aralia elata, the Japanese angelica tree, Chinese angelica-tree, or Korean angelica-tree, is a woody plant belonging to the family Araliaceae. It is known as tara-no-ki (タラノキ; 楤木) in Japanese, and dureup-namu (두릅나무) in Korean.

Care Guide

💧 Water

The Japanese angelica tree thrives in moderate humidity and well-drained soil. It needs watering every three weeks. Once established, the tree is moderately drought-tolerant. Applying mulch helps retain moisture during the growing season and supports healthy growth without the risk of waterlogging.

FAQ
What's the best way to give water to my Japanese angelica tree?

To ensure healthy root development, it is recommended to place a garden hose at the base of the plant rather than spraying the leaves directly. If the plant is outdoors and exposed to direct sunlight, the leaves will require more water. For moistening the roots, bubblers can be used for each plant, while soaker hoses can cover the entire garden or bed when adding or removing plants to ensure deep rooting. After watering, any excess water should be drained and the soil should be allowed to dry before watering again. Watering at ground level is advised to prevent diseases. On sunny days, it may be beneficial to spray the entire bush with water. Whether the Japanese angelica tree is potted or in the ground, it prefers deep watering rather than light sprinkling.

What do I do if I give the Japanese angelica tree too much or too little water?

When a Japanese angelica tree is overwatered, it displays signs such as yellowing and dropping leaves, as well as a dull and unhealthy appearance with mushy stems. In these cases, it is recommended to adjust your watering schedule. Conversely, wilting can also indicate under watering, characterized by crispy and dry leaves. If the soil is dry and simply watering is not enough, a thorough watering is necessary. However, after a few days, the plant may still have dry and yellow leaves due to damage to the root system. It is important to check the moisture levels of the pot when the tree is indoors, avoiding overwatering and looking out for black spots. In the presence of root rot, transferring the tree to a different pot is advisable if discolored and slimy roots are observed. Preventing root rot and avoiding excessively soggy soil is essential. When planting the tree outdoors, it is recommended to dig a little deeper and, if the soil feels too dry, ensure adequate watering to aid in the plant's recovery.

How often do I need to water my Japanese angelica tree?

The Japanese angelica tree prefers deep and infrequent watering. When planted in pots, it's important to soak them with a gallon of water each time due to the limited water storage in the pots. In colder regions, watering is needed every 3 to 5 days. It is best to water early in the morning when the soil is dry, whether the tree is outdoors or indoors. You can check the soil inside the pot to determine if watering is needed - when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry, it's time for a full watering. During hot days, check the moisture daily as the heat can quickly dry out the soil. If you have a garden, irrigation of the soil is also necessary. In hot climates, watering once a week is sufficient. Only water when about 2 to 3 inches of the soil become too dry, and avoid adding water if there has been a lot of rainfall to prevent root rot. Japanese angelica trees generally grow during spring and fall. Outdoor trees should be mulched with about 3 to 4 inches of mulch to conserve water. Sandy soil requires more frequent watering as it drains faster, while clay soil needs less frequent watering to avoid root rot. Keeping track of watering dates on a calendar can be helpful, and if you notice the leaves drooping, it may indicate that you need to water the tree earlier.

How much water does my Japanese angelica tree need?

The Japanese angelica tree generally needs about a gallon of water on a regular basis. For potted plants, water them deeply until you see water dripping from the bottom of the pot. Allow the soil to dry before watering again. You can use a water calculator or moisture meter to determine how much water you've given your plant in a week. During the flowering period, provide plenty of water, but let the moisture evaporate to prevent root rot. If the Japanese angelica tree is planted outdoors and receives adequate rainfall, additional watering may not be necessary. However, when the tree is young or newly planted, make sure it gets 1-2 inches of rain per week. As the tree grows, it can survive solely on rainfall. Only water it fully during cooler moments of the day if the weather is too hot or if there hasn't been any rainfall for 2-3 weeks to prevent heat damage. Additional watering will be needed during prolonged dry periods.

Should I change how often I water my Japanese angelica tree based on the time of year or the weather?

The Japanese angelica tree needs to be watered according to the weather conditions. During persistent dry weather, it may require watering, but generally, it can rely on rain. In the spring and fall, keep the soil moist but not soggy to promote growth. In the summer, hot weather may cause water to evaporate quickly, so if there's insufficient rainfall, water the tree more frequently. During winter, the tree needs less water as it goes dormant. Use well-draining but moisture-retentive soil mixture in pots to encourage water evaporation. Once the tree is dormant, rely on fall and winter rains for survival. In spring, encourage growth by cultivating and providing adequate drainage. Water the tree deeply once or twice a week, avoiding shallow sprinkles. Don't let it dry out completely in fall and winter, but also avoid overwatering to prevent root problems. Apply mulch to reduce stress and conserve water.

☀️ Light Partial sun

The Japanese angelica tree grows best in spots that get plenty of sun for most of the day but not intense direct sunlight. Too much sun can leave the tree stressed or stunted, while too little light can restrict its growth. It originates from habitats where sunlight is filtered through the forest canopy.

Ideal: Partial sun
FAQ
What are the sunlight requirements for the Japanese angelica tree?

The Japanese angelica tree needs ample but not intense sunlight for the majority of the day to thrive well. It can tolerate both partial sun, about 3-6 hours of sunlight, and full sun, above 6 hours of sunlight. It is important to watch how sunlight moves through your garden and choose spots that offer a perfect balance of light and shade, ensuring the plants are happy and healthy. This tree originates from environments where sunlight is naturally filtered through the canopy of the forest, implying it does not fare well under excessive sunlight, which can lead to stress or stunted growth.

How can artificial lighting be used for indoor plants?

Artificial lighting is crucial for indoor plants, especially when natural sunlight is insufficient, like in winter or less sunny spaces. LED lights are recommended due to their ability to provide specific light wavelengths needed for plant growth. For optimal growth, full sun plants require 30-50W/sq ft of artificial light, partial sun plants need 20-30W/sq ft, and full shade plants need 10-20W/sq ft. The light source should be placed 12-36 inches above the plant to mimic natural sunlight and be kept on for 8-12 hours per day to simulate natural daylight hours effectively.

What are the signs of improper lighting for a Japanese angelica tree?

When a Japanese angelica tree is exposed to inadequate light conditions, it may show signs such as smaller new leaves compared to the older ones, leggy or sparse growth, faster leaf drop, slower or no growth indicating the plant has entered a survival mode due to poor light conditions. Additionally, lighter-colored new leaves, chlorosis (yellowing of leaves), sunscald, leaf curling, wilting, and leaf scorching can also occur. These signs hint at either too much or too little light, both of which can affect the plant's health adversely.

How can light conditions be improved for a Japanese angelica tree?

To improve light conditions for a Japanese angelica tree, gradually adjust its exposure to sunlight. For indoor plants, shift them to sunnier spots each week to gradually get 3-6 hours of direct sunlight daily or use artificial light such as desk or ceiling lamps for at least 8 hours daily. Outdoor plants should be moved to sunnier locations incrementally to avoid sunburn. Pruning surrounding trees can reduce obstructions and let more sunlight through. For smaller plants, consider transplanting during their dormant period to a sunnier location with ample sunlight and good drainage. Remember, parts of the plant damaged by insufficient light may not recover, but new growth will be healthy after adjusting light exposure.

🌡️ Temperature 5–35°C

The Japanese angelica tree is a hardy plant native to cool-climate regions, preferring temperatures between 41 and 95 °F (5 to 35 ℃). During seasonal changes, make sure it is not exposed to temperatures below its sensitive threshold, especially in winter.

Ideal temperature: 5–35°C
FAQ
What is the optimal temperature range for Japanese angelica tree growth?

The Japanese angelica tree thrives in cold-resonant areas and prefers temperatures between 41°F (5°C) and 95°F (35°C). To ensure the plant's optimal growth, it's important to maintain temperatures above 5°C during the winter months. It is crucial to protect the plant from freezing temperatures, especially in winter, by keeping the minimum temperature above the freezing point. When outdoor temperatures approach -5°C (25°F), consider bringing the Japanese angelica tree indoors or protect it with a temporary greenhouse or wrapping materials such as plastic film or fabric.

How does the Japanese angelica tree respond to low temperatures and what are the solutions?

The Japanese angelica tree has moderate tolerance to low temperatures, performing best between 5°C and 35°C. It should be kept above -25°C during winter. If temperatures drop below -30°C, you may notice the leaves darken and potentially exhibit signs of water-soaked necrosis, wilting, drooping, and gradually turning brown in severe cases. To address frost damage, trim away frost-damaged parts and move the plant to a warmer indoor environment or set up a makeshift greenhouse. Ensure the plant is placed near a south-facing window for ample sunlight or use supplemental lighting if natural light is insufficient.

What measures should be taken if a Japanese angelica tree is exposed to high temperatures?

During the summer months, it's crucial to ensure that the Japanese angelica tree's temperature does not exceed 35°C. Exposure to temperatures above 38°C can slow down its growth, lead to a lighter leaf color, and increase susceptibility to sunburn. To mitigate these issues, trim away sunburned and dried-up parts. Relocate the plant to a shaded area, preferably where it can avoid the intense afternoon sun. Additionally, watering the plant in the morning and evening can help keep the soil adequately moist and prevent heat stress.

💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 6-7
Soil pH: 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer

Japanese angelica tree species benefit from one or two applications of organic natural fertilizers containing potassium and phosphorus. Apply the fertilizer before planting, incorporate it into the soil and water thoroughly. One application is generally sufficient, but a second can be made once seedlings are established. Avoid excessive fertilizer use, as it can damage the plants.

FAQ
Why should I put fertilizer on my Japanese angelica tree?

The Japanese angelica tree grows fast and needs a lot of energy to make the root vegetables we like. To grow and produce roots, Japanese angelica tree species need nutrients, along with sunlight, oxygen, and water. Normally, these nutrients are in garden soil due to the natural breakdown of organic matter. However, sometimes the soil may not have enough nutrients for healthy tree growth. In those situations, fertilizer gives the Japanese angelica tree the boost it requires.

When should I fertilize my Japanese angelica tree?

Prepare your soil for planting by applying natural fertilizer. Take enough time to incorporate it into the soil and water it thoroughly before planting seeds or seedlings. Typically, a single application of fertilizer is sufficient to support the growth of Japanese angelica trees throughout the season. However, if desired, you can apply an extra round of fertilizer once the seedlings have established themselves to further increase their yield. Ensure not to use excessive fertilizer as it may harm the plants.

When is it not a good idea to fertilize my Japanese angelica tree?

To ensure effective fertilization, remember to avoid applying fertilizer when the soil is dry. After fertilizing, make sure to water your plants thoroughly as this helps deliver the nutrients properly. If you prioritize the growth of foliage over the root crops, then high-nitrogen fertilizers might be suitable for you. However, take care not to let fertilizer come into contact with the base of the plant, leaves, or stems as it can potentially damage them.

What kind of fertilizer does my Japanese angelica tree need?

Most people grow Japanese angelica tree primarily for the roots, but the foliage can also be eaten. To help your tree develop healthy roots, use a fertilizer with more phosphate and potassium than nitrogen. Natural options like bone meal and kelp work well, but chemical fertilizers can also be used. Just be careful to avoid high levels of nitrogen, as it is not as important for this plant. To determine the best fertilizer for your Japanese angelica tree, take a soil sample from the area where you plan to grow it. Testing the soil will reveal any nutrient deficiencies, as well as other factors like density and pH level, which all play a role in the plant's success. It's important to consider all of these factors and treat the soil accordingly for optimal growth.

How can I make my Japanese angelica tree grow better?

To fertilize a Japanese angelica tree, start by mixing an organic fertilizer like bone meal or kelp into the soil before planting. If you need to fertilize during the season, use a layer of compost or well-rotted manure as mulch around the tree but not directly touching it. This will gradually break down and provide nutrients to the roots. If using liquid fertilizers, dilute it with water according to the instructions and spray it carefully around the tree, avoiding splashing on the plant. Alternatively, sprinkle granular fertilizers around the base or between rows, and work them into the top layer of soil to prevent them from being washed or blown away.

🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning

Prune the Japanese angelica tree in early spring by removing any dead branches and thinning out older stems to improve air circulation. Trim the lower branches to shape the tree, and remove any suckers at the base to control its spread. Regular pruning encourages healthy growth and enhances the tree's ornamental value.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Tree
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Aralia
Family
Araliaceae
Hardiness Zone
4-9
Mature Height
10.06 m
Mature Spread
1.83 m to 3.05 m
Leaf Color
Green, Yellow, Orange
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
White
Flower Size
1.02 cm to 1.52 cm
Bloom Time
Mid summer
Planting Time
Spring, Autumn
Harvest Time
Mid summer
Native Area
Russia, Japan, Koppen, South Korea, China

Tags (10)

Common Names (9)

en Japanese angelica tree
en Chinese angelica
en Japanese Aralia
en Oni's Walking Stick
en Korean Angelica Tree
en Hercules' Club
en Devil's walking stick
en Dureup Tree
zh 楤木 (JA)