Aralia cordata 'Sun King'
Overview
Uses: Shade gardens, woodland borders, focal points in partial shade, large containers, moisture-tolerant plantings.
Benefits: Brilliant golden foliage, bold tropical appearance in cool climates, attracts pollinators, deer resistant, tolerant of moist soils.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–9
Sun: Partial Shade to Shade
Life Cycle: Hardy Perennial
Growth Habit: Upright, Clumping — large compound leaves on sturdy stems.
Bloom Color: White
Foliage Color: Golden Yellow to Chartreuse
Mature Height: 3–6'
Mature Width: 3–6'
Bloom Season: Summer
Growth Rate: Fast
Summary
A bold, golden anchor plant that brings luminous color and tropical texture to shaded landscapes.
Aralia cordata 'Sun King' is prized for its large, compound foliage in vibrant golden-yellow tones that brighten woodland borders and shaded garden spaces. The foliage color shifts subtly depending on light exposure, ranging from bright gold in partial sun to chartreuse in deeper shade.
In summer, airy clusters of small white flowers rise above the foliage, followed by ornamental deep-purple berries that add seasonal interest and attract birds. Its substantial size and upright clumping habit make it an excellent structural plant for moisture-retentive soils and partially shaded sites.
Care
Aralia cordata 'Sun King' Care
Plant in partial shade to light shade for best foliage color. In cooler climates, it tolerates some morning sun, but excessive direct sun may require additional moisture.
Grow in moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Water regularly during establishment and during extended dry periods.
Cut back stems in late fall or early spring after foliage dies back. Divide clumps in spring if needed to control size.
Apply a light spring feeding with a slow release fertilizer if desired.
Container Growing: ‘Sun King’ can be grown in large patio containers with consistent moisture and adequate drainage. Container-grown plants require more frequent watering than those planted in the ground. Plants hardy in the ground may require winter protection when grown in containers in colder zones.
Size
What Size is the Aralia cordata 'Sun King' for Sale Online?
Plants ship in a greenhouse-grade grow pot and are actively growing perennials. Size at shipment reflects current growth stage. Please contact us with specific sizing questions.
How Large Does Aralia cordata 'Sun King' Grow?
Mature plants typically reach 3–6 feet tall and wide, forming substantial clumps that serve as dramatic shade-garden focal points.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
This plant is commonly known as Japanese Spikenard or Golden Japanese Spikenard.
Is 'Sun King' deer resistant?
Yes. It is typically deer resistant once established and pairs well with other selections in our deer-resistant perennials and grasses collection.
Where does this plant perform best?
‘Sun King’ excels in shaded borders and woodland-style plantings. It works beautifully alongside other shade-tolerant selections from our perennials and patio plants collections.
