Aralia cordata 'Sun King' | Japanese Spikenard
DESCRIPTION
Aralia cordata 'Sun King' is a standout for its brilliant golden foliage, which provides a vibrant contrast in shaded or woodland gardens. Its large, compound leaves emerge in early spring and maintain their intense yellow hue throughout the season, lending brightness to dimmer areas. In late summer, small clusters of white flowers bloom, adding delicate accents that attract pollinators. These blossoms are followed by purple-black berries, which provide additional interest as they mature.
Originating from Japan, 'Sun King' was introduced to American gardens for its bold foliage and adaptability to shade. This Aralia variety has quickly gained popularity for its ability to create a lush, tropical feel in temperate climates, blending well with ferns, hostas, and other shade-loving perennials. Its striking yellow foliage remains vibrant even in part sun, making it a versatile choice for brightening mixed borders or naturalized settings.
DESCRIPTION
Aralia cordata 'Sun King' is a standout for its brilliant golden foliage, which provides a vibrant contrast in shaded or woodland gardens. Its large, compound leaves emerge in early spring and maintain their intense yellow hue throughout the season, lending brightness to dimmer areas. In late summer, small clusters of white flowers bloom, adding delicate accents that attract pollinators. These blossoms are followed by purple-black berries, which provide additional interest as they mature.
Originating from Japan, 'Sun King' was introduced to American gardens for its bold foliage and adaptability to shade. This Aralia variety has quickly gained popularity for its ability to create a lush, tropical feel in temperate climates, blending well with ferns, hostas, and other shade-loving perennials. Its striking yellow foliage remains vibrant even in part sun, making it a versatile choice for brightening mixed borders or naturalized settings.
DESCRIPTION
Aralia cordata 'Sun King' is a standout for its brilliant golden foliage, which provides a vibrant contrast in shaded or woodland gardens. Its large, compound leaves emerge in early spring and maintain their intense yellow hue throughout the season, lending brightness to dimmer areas. In late summer, small clusters of white flowers bloom, adding delicate accents that attract pollinators. These blossoms are followed by purple-black berries, which provide additional interest as they mature.
Originating from Japan, 'Sun King' was introduced to American gardens for its bold foliage and adaptability to shade. This Aralia variety has quickly gained popularity for its ability to create a lush, tropical feel in temperate climates, blending well with ferns, hostas, and other shade-loving perennials. Its striking yellow foliage remains vibrant even in part sun, making it a versatile choice for brightening mixed borders or naturalized settings.
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Family: Araliaceae
Height: 3-4 feet tall
Width: 3-4 feet wide
Foliage color: Bright yellow to chartreuse leaves, with deeper green in more shade
Flower color: Small, white flowers in clusters
Bloom time: Late summer
Light requirements: Partial shade to full shade
Water requirements: Medium
Maintenance: Low; prune for shape
Growing zone: USDA Zones 3-9
Wildlife attractors: Attracts bees and other pollinatorsThis plant can be seen in the perennial border at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
