Japanese angelica-tree

The Japanese angelica tree (Aralia elata) is an upright deciduous small tree or shrub up to 6 meters in height, with large double pinnate leaves. It is known as tara in Japan. Japanese angelica tree prefers deep loamy soils in partial shade, but will grow in poorer soils and in full sun.

Features:

• Leaf - large(2-4 foot long), doubly pinnate, alternate leaves.
• Flower - small white blooms in large panicles from July to August.
• Fruit - small black drupes.
• Bark - rough and gray with prickles.

In Japan, the shoots are eaten in the spring. They are picked from the end of the branches and are fried in a tempura batter.