About Aralia cordata Thunb.
Aralia cordata Thunb. is classified as both a dicot and a eudicot. In the wild, this plant grows to a height of 1.2 to 1.8 metres (3.9 to 5.9 ft). It has golden leaves in spring, and an abundance of large bright green leaves in summer. Its leaves are alternate and large, with a double to triple pinnate structure; leaflets measure 7 to 15 centimetres (2.8 to 5.9 in) long and 5 to 10 centimetres (2.0 to 3.9 in) broad. The plant has a hefty, plump rootstock, with shoots that grow 60 to 90 centimetres (2.0 to 3.0 ft) in length. In late summer, it produces small white flowers arranged in large umbels 30 to 45 centimetres (12 to 18 in) in diameter. It also bears loose flower bunches 90 centimetres (3.0 ft) long in summer; these bunches attract bees and flies, making the plant ideal for beekeepers. After flowering, it produces small black drupe fruits 3 millimetres (0.12 in) in diameter, which may be toxic to humans. Aralia cordata Thunb. reaches optimal growth when planted in rich soil. It can be grown from seed or propagated from cuttings.
