Spikenard

‘Sun King’ is a clump-forming, deciduous Japanese spikenard selected for its large golden-yellow compound leaves. It reaches roughly 1–1.5 m tall and wide; late-summer sprays of small white flowers are followed by purple berries in autumn. The gold foliage is strongest with several hours of sun, while deeper shade can shift it toward lime green ([Royal Horticultural Society](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/307448/aralia-cordata-sun-king/details)). ## Form and Placement Use this bold-textured perennial as a specimen in a woodland edge, shaded border, or sheltered courtyard bed. Its substantial leaves create a broad, tropical-looking mass, so allow room around the clump and avoid placing it where the foliage will obstruct narrow paths. The RHS lists the cultivar as Aralia cordata ‘Sun King’; the live catalog’s cultivar-bearing variety field supports that identity, while its current scientific name omits the species epithet. ## Growing Conditions Grow in full sun to partial shade in moist but well-drained soil. A few hours of sunlight help maintain the golden leaf color; in darker conditions the leaves can become greener. The RHS lists clay, loam, or sand and acid, neutral, or alkaline pH, provided moisture and drainage are suitable. Protect the large leaves from damaging exposure where the site is windy. ## Maintenance Keep soil evenly moist during establishment and during extended dry weather. Remove damaged stems at the end of the growing season; routine pruning is not required. Divide in spring only if propagation or rejuvenation is needed. Watch for aphids and for honey fungus where it is already present in the garden.