Aralia racemosa

American spikenard is a shrubby-looking herbaceous perennial that is native to Eastern North America. It is our version of the Japanese spikenard, Aralia cordata. Spikenards hail from rich, moist woodlands. They are fairly easy to grow in the garden as long as indirect light and adequate water are provided.

The berries, roots, and young shoots are edible. From root beer to jelly, American spikenard is great to include in a food forest. This plant is also medicinal.