ELK CLOVER

Species Name: Aralia californica
Family: Araliaceae (ginseng family)
Plant Type: Shrub

Description:  Erect shrub, height 3-9 feet, deciduous.  Roots large, contain milky juice.

Leaf:  Compound, large with 3-5 leaflets.  Leaflet ovate, tip pointed, margins small-toothed, length 6-12 inches.

 

Flower:  June-August, long stalk (length 14-18 inches), multiple branches of small, ball-like clusters of white, sticky flowers.

Fruit/Seed:  Berry, round, black, <¼ inch diameter. 

Typical Location:  Moist shady areas, streamsides, canyons; elevations below 6,500 feet.

Revegetation Approach:  Container.

Notes:  In same family as non-native English ivy, Hedera helix.