Oplopanax horridus |
Syn. Echinopanax horridum
Syn. Fatsia horrida
Native Region: Pacific Northwest
Zone Range: 3-9
Preferred Climate: Semi shady sites; well draining evenly moist soil.
Harvest Date: Saturday 10 September, 2011
Seed count: 12-15
Description:
Our shrubby thorny relative to the famous ginseng (Panax). Like ginseng, it is widely used as a valuable medicinal today as its been for countless generations by our Coastal First Nations from Alaska to California for a variety of ailments. Found along moist open mixed forest and riparian areas, but will make itself home in a shady garden where its lovely bold palmate green leaves can be enjoyed. Creamy white flower clusters are followed by brilliant red berries by August. Some would find this species intimidating with its 3 meter woody stalks armed with wicked thorns, but this plant is a beauty. Truely under appreciated. Summer drought tolerant.
Notes:
This species is slowly being pushed out by habitat destruction. It takes forever for huge groves to form so be appreciative when you come across such a site when hiking and have to slide through the thorns to get to the other side. Ideal for planting under your daughter's bedroom window.
Cultivation:
Germination can be prolonged and erratic if seed is stored dry, perhaps this is the reason why people find germinating this species difficult. We do the super no-brainer easy: place seed in a 5x10 cm resealable baggie full of moist coarse sand. Mix. Place in fridge at 4 C. Seed collected August 2009 were sprouting in January 2010 without warm stratification period. Very rewarding technique whether you are an expert or novice. Prick out seedlings and transplant in humus rich medium enriched with greensand. Deeper the pot the better. DO NOT LET SEEDLINGS FREEZE!!! Let grow 2 years before seating in final position. I have pics to prove.
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