This multi-stemmed shrub is displaying deep, succulent fruits in the Dry Garden.
Aralia elata, or the angelica tree, is a suckering species which can reach 10m in height. The pithy stems are covered in spines, and from these emerge deep green, pinnate leaves. A mass of globose umbels form a large panicle of flowers in August and September. These quickly produce fleshy, black fruits to great effect, which can be admired now. Belonging to the Araliaceae (ginseng family), the angelica tree is a native of east and north Asia, and is one of approximately 30 species which occur in Asia, Australia and America.