Oplopanax japonicus
Oplopanax japonicus
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Pl. 82DB — Oplopanax japonicus
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IOverview
Overview
Oplopanax japonicus, commonly known as Japanese spikenard, is a deciduous shrub native to Japan. It thrives in partial sun or full shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This plant grows up to 3 meters tall and is hardy in zones 5-9. Known for its edible parts—leaves, roots, and shoots—it adds a unique touch to the landscape while providing sustenance. One distinctive feature of Oplopanax japonicus is its light green, compound leaves that can grow up to 20 cm long, making it an ornamental addition to gardens.
Quick answers
What is Oplopanax japonicus?
Oplopanax japonicus, commonly known as Japanese spikenard, is a deciduous shrub native to Japan. It thrives in partial sun or full shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This plant grows up to 3 meters tall and is hardy in zones 5-9.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Oplopanax japonicus thrives in partial sun to full shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 5-9 and grows up to 3 meters tall. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist while providing ample shade for optimal growth. Harvest edible parts such as leaves, roots, and shoots.
Light
Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Oplopanax japonicus for the first time
7steps
Start with planting Oplopanax japonicus in a partially shaded area, ensuring you have the right soil and care routine.
- 1
What you'll need
Oplopanax japonicus plants or seeds, potting mix suitable for partial shade, containers if needed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Oplopanax japonicus in spring after the last frost or early fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining soil mix that can handle partial shade. Ensure containers have drainage holes if you're planting in pots.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Oplopanax japonicus from seedlings or directly into the ground, spacing them about 1 meter apart for good growth.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress and adjust watering accordingly.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial shade and regular watering, especially during dry spells. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged parts.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRootShoots
Edible uses: The leaves, roots, and shoots of Oplopanax japonicus are edible. Typically, these parts can be prepared in various ways—raw or cooked. SKIP
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 1 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Japan
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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