Aralia cordata 'Sun King' - Sun King Golden Japanese Spikenard

'Sun King' attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, thanks to its late-summer blooms. The berries that follow the flowers are a food source for birds, making this plant a great addition to wildlife-friendly gardens. Its dense foliage also provides shelter for small insects and animals.

• Seasonality: Herbaceous perennial; dies back in winter and regrows in spring.
• Flowering Season: Late summer (July-September)
• Bloom Description: Sun King produces small, star-shaped white flowers in large, airy clusters (panicles) atop the foliage in late summer. While the flowers are not highly ornamental, they attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The blooms are followed by small, dark purple-black berries that provide additional visual interest and food for wildlife.

• Shade gardens
  
• Woodland borders
  
• Accent or specimen plant
  
• Understory layer in mixed beds
  
• Foliage contrast plant in containers

The foliage of Aralia cordata 'Sun King' is its standout feature. The large, compound leaves are a vibrant chartreuse-yellow, which brightens shaded areas of the garden. The foliage maintains its golden color throughout the growing season, especially in partial shade, creating a bold contrast with other green plants. The leaves are textured, with a slightly tropical look, adding a lush and dramatic effect to the landscape.

Bloom Time:
Late summer (typically July to August)

Color:
Creamy white or soft green-white

Shape:
Tiny umbel-shaped or dome-shaped clusters, 3–6 inches wide

Position:
Appear above or slightly within the foliage mound

Ornamental Value:
Subtle – flowers are not the main visual draw, but add late-season interest

• Planting Season: Best planted in spring or fall when temperatures are cool, allowing the plant to establish its roots before the growing season or winter dormancy.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Amending the soil with organic matter, such as compost, will improve drainage and fertility.
• Spacing: Space plants 3-6 feet apart to allow for mature spread and to create a full, lush look.

Planting Instructions:

1. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
2. Place the plant in the hole with the top of the root ball level with the soil surface.
3. Backfill with soil, tamp gently, and water thoroughly.
4. Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pruning is minimal for 'Sun King'. In late fall or early spring, cut back the dead stems to the ground as the plant dies back for winter dormancy. This will encourage fresh, healthy growth in the spring. No extensive pruning is needed, as the plant maintains its shape naturally.

'Sun King' prefers consistently moist soil, especially during the first growing season. Water regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Once established, it is moderately drought-tolerant, though it will perform best with consistent moisture, especially in hot, dry periods.

This plant thrives in partial to full shade. In partial shade (where it receives 2-4 hours of direct sunlight or dappled light), the foliage will maintain its brightest golden color. Too much direct sunlight may cause the leaves to scorch, while full shade will result in greener foliage.

While Aralia cordata 'Sun King' is primarily grown for its ornamental foliage and flowers, the berries can be harvested and used in decorative arrangements. The plant itself is not typically harvested for culinary use, though its close relative, Aralia cordata, is used in Japanese cuisine. For ornamental purposes, the berries and foliage can add a unique touch to floral displays.

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost to promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive leafy growth at the expense of flowers and berries. A second light feeding in mid-summer can help sustain growth throughout the season.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weeds.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Sun King is generally resistant to pests and diseases. It is also deer-resistant, making it a great choice for gardens in areas with deer pressure. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overly wet conditions to prevent fungal issues.
• Winter Care: In colder climates, the plant dies back to the ground in winter. No special winter protection is needed. Simply cut back dead stems in fall or early spring, and the plant will regrow from its roots in the spring.

Pollination Type: Self-pollinating (monoecious – male and female flowers on the same plant)

Pollinators Attracted: Bees, flies, and other small insects – though not reliant on pollinators for fruiting

• Hosta – Offers contrasting leaf textures and tones
  
• Heuchera (Coral Bells) – Adds vibrant, colorful foliage beneath Aralia’s canopy
  
• Astilbe – Pairs well in moisture-retentive soils, offers floral contrast
  
• Ferns – Such as Japanese painted fern or lady fern for lush texture
  
• Pulmonaria – Speckled leaves and early flowers provide visual interest
  
• Brunnera macrophylla – Heart-shaped, silvered leaves are a soft foil to Aralia’s chartreuse
  
• Solomon’s Seal (Polygonatum) – Arching stems and white bells balance Aralia’s upright habit
  
• Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa) – Graceful movement and fine texture at the base