Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Aralia cordata 'Sun King'
Japanese Spikenard
- Family
- Araliaceae
- Height
- 3-4 feet tall
- Width
- 3-4 feet wide
- Flower color
- Small, white flowers in clusters
- Foliage color
- Bright yellow to chartreuse leaves, with deeper green in more shade
- Bloom time
- Late summer
- Light
- Partial shade to full shade
- Water
- Medium
- Maintenance
- Low; prune for shape
- Growing zone
- USDA Zones 3-9
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees and other pollinators
About this plant
Aralia cordata 'Sun King' is a standout for its brilliant golden foliage, which provides a vibrant contrast in shaded or woodland gardens. Its large, compound leaves emerge in early spring and maintain their intense yellow hue throughout the season, lending brightness to dimmer areas. In late summer, small clusters of white flowers bloom, adding delicate accents that attract pollinators. These blossoms are followed by purple-black berries, which provide additional interest as they mature.
Originating from Japan, 'Sun King' was introduced to American gardens for its bold foliage and adaptability to shade. This Aralia variety has quickly gained popularity for its ability to create a lush, tropical feel in temperate climates, blending well with ferns, hostas, and other shade-loving perennials. Its striking yellow foliage remains vibrant even in part sun, making it a versatile choice for brightening mixed borders or naturalized settings.
Works well in
Borders · Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens
Companion plants
Japanese forest grass · Astilbes · Heucheras · Siberian bugloss · Sweet woodruff · Foamflowers
Design tip
Summer flowers carry the middle of the season, so place it where the bed needs color once spring bulbs fade. Cooler light suits it, so tuck it on the north side of a shrub or wall where the soil stays even.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen in the perennial border at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
