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Japanese angelica tree (Aralia elata). Photo Credit: John M. Randall, The Nature Conservancy, Bugwood.org.

Japanese Angelica Tree

COMMON NAME:

Japanese angelica tree

SCIENTIFIC NAME:

Aralia elata

ORIGIN:

Northeast Asia

DESCRIPTION:

The Japanese angelica tree is a deciduous shrub or tree that can grow up to 40 feet in height. The tree is multi-stemmed, and the bark is covered in sharp thorns. The sometimes variegated leaves are bi- or tri- pinnately compound with a pubescent underside. Cream and white colored flowers grow in large panicles which bloom in late summer. The tree produces purple/black fruits in the fall.

ECOLOGY
RESOURCES
DISTRIBUTION

HABITAT:

Like many invasive plants, the Japanese angelica tree prefers disturbed grounds and edge habitats. It is also commonly found in open areas, wooded edges, thickets, and urban landscapes.

THREAT:

The aggressive growth pattern of the Japanese angelica tree allows it to outcompete native species. It prolifically sprouts from root suckers to form large dominating thickets. Over time, these thickets displace the native vegetation, and reduce biodiversity.

MANAGEMENT:

When the infestation is small and the plants are young, this species can be manually removed. For larger infestations and individual plants, herbicide is recommended to prevent resprouting. Herbicide can be applied by spraying the foliage or basal bark treatment. Physical damage to the tree spurs regeneration, so it is less effective to girdle or cut-stump treat Japanese angelica tree.

WNY PRISM PRIORITY:

Tier 2 - Eradication
NYS Invasive Species Tiers Chart

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources: Fact Sheet
Mistaken Identity: Invasive Plants and their Native Look-alikes: Pages 8-9, Japanese Angelica Tree vs. Devil's Walkingstick

NYS Prohibited and Regulated Species - Part 575:

Japanese angelica tree is a prohibited species in New York State – for more information on Prohibited and Regulated Species, visit http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/99141.html

PATHWAYS OF INVASION:

Japanese angelica tree was introduced in the 1830’s as an ornamental landscape plant. The seeds are mainly spread by wildlife and the sprouting of root shoots leads to the formation of dense thickets.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION:

Early detection. Japanese angelica tree was first reported in the WNY PRISM region in 2018.

MAP (via iMapInvasives):

This map shows confirmed observations (green points) submitted to the NYS Invasive Species Database. Absence of data does not necessarily mean absence of the species at that site, but that it has not been reported there. For more information, please visit iMapInvasives.