Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Araliaceae

Genus:

Aralia

Species:

Aralia hispida

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb , Subshrub

Height:

4-6 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun, Part Shade, Shade

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

jun, jul, aug, sep

Bloom Colors:

White, Green

Evergreen Shrub:

Yes

Landscaping Shrub:

Yes

Native Range

United States: Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, Vermont, Wisconsin, West Virginia, Canada: Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:

★★★★☆ Based on number of butterfly and moth species using this genus as host plant (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, acidic, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

commonly found in disturbed areas and open woodlands