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California spikenard
Scientific Name: Aralia californica
Family: Araliaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
California Spikenard (Aralia californica)
Also known as California aralia and Elk Clover (though it is not a true clover), California Spikenard (Aralia californica) is a fascinating plant with a rich history of use and a unique place in the ecosystem.
Considerations for Pets
- The text mentions the plant's root, berries, and other parts are sometimes used for medicinal purposes. While this doesn't definitively indicate toxicity, consult a veterinarian before allowing pets to ingest any part of the plant.
Considerations for Children
- The text mentions the plant's root, berries, and other parts are sometimes used for medicinal purposes. While this doesn't definitively indicate toxicity, children should be discouraged from ingesting any part of the plant.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Aralia californica S. Wats.
- Common Names: California Spikenard, California Aralia, Elk Clover, Prairie Sagewort, Elk's Clover
- Family: Araliaceae (Ginseng Family)
- Taxonomic Rank: Species
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to California and southwestern Oregon.
- More common in cooler, moister areas in northern California, especially in redwood country and the San Francisco area.
- Also found in Lower Saxony, Germany (possibly introduced).
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- A large herbaceous perennial.
- The largest herbaceous member of the Ginseng family.
- Can grow up to six feet tall.
- Described as a large perennial shrub.
- Has unusual looking blossoms.
Traditional Uses and Properties
- The root has a mild, pleasant licorice-like flavor and is often used as a substitute for sarsaparilla.
- Used by herbalists as a tonic.
- Considered a powerful respiratory remedy with immune-stimulating, anti-microbial, and expectorant properties.
- Used for strengthening respiratory and immune function.
- Used as an adaptogenic tonic.
- Karok people used it as a drug for Antirheumatic (External).
Related Species
- Resembles Aralia racemosa in properties and appearance, though both the root and plant are larger.
Quirky Facts
- Despite its common name "Elk Clover," it is not a true clover.
- The text mentions that in a small tree setting, "...danknese always lingers the California spikenard scents the air with its peculiar odor..."
Further Information
- Referenced resources include: California Academy of Sciences, USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database, Discover Life.