Devil's Walking Stick
aralia spinosa
Also known as: ["Hercules' Club","Prickly Aralia"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree native to eastern North America, known for its large, bipinnately compound leaves and sharp, spiny stems.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Araliaceae |
| Genus: | Aralia |
| Botanical Name: | Aralia spinosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in partial shade or full sun, protected from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to avoid leaf scorch; place in filtered light during peak summer; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light patterns.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; adjust pH with peat moss or lime if needed.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on growth rate.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with a node; air layering for larger specimens.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut just below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain moisture and humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; or moist sphagnum moss for air layering.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
4–8 weeks for roots to develop; additional time for establishment.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of stems to maintain shape; pinch back tips for bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or damaged growth, and encourage bushier development.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/damaged stems; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; ensure bottom drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim root bound areas; refresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting; stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or drop; vulnerable to frost damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a protective cover during frost; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or brown leaf edges; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; provide shade during peak heat; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicAralia spinosa berries are mildly toxic to cats if ingested. The toxic compounds can cause gastrointestinal irritation and mild systemic effects. Cats are particularly sensitive to plant toxins, so even small amounts of ingestion can lead to noticeable symptoms. While severe toxicity is rare, caution is advised.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Aralia spinosa can cause mild toxicity in dogs if ingested. The toxic compounds, primarily saponins, can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to discomfort and mild systemic effects. While generally not life-threatening, ingestion should be monitored and veterinary attention sought if symptoms persist.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAralia spinosa, commonly known as devil's walking stick, contains toxic compounds primarily in its berries. Ingestion can lead to mild gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects due to the presence of saponins and other irritants. The physiological impact is generally limited to discomfort and is not typically life-threatening unless consumed in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Aralia spinosa toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How tall does Aralia spinosa grow?
A: It can grow up to 15 feet tall in ideal conditions.
Q: Does Aralia spinosa attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it produces berries that attract birds and its flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
