The Edibility of American Spikenard (Aralia racemosa)
American spikenard is a large, herbaceous perennial native to eastern and central North America, prized for both its ornamental beauty and its edible parts. The plant, which is in the ginseng family, is known for its impressive size, large compound leaves, and attractive clusters of berries. The following parts are most commonly referenced for their edible qualities:
- Berries: The dark red to purple-black berries that appear in late summer are edible and have a pleasant, if somewhat seedy and mild, taste. They are often used in cooked applications like jams, jellies, juices, or fruit leather. It is important to note that while generally considered edible for Aralia racemosa, a trusted botanical garden has listed the berries as 'inedible,' likely due to texture rather than toxicity, but it highlights the need for certainty when foraging.
- Roots: The thick, aromatic root has a spicy, liquorice-like flavour and has a long history of use. Native American tribes used the roots for both food and medicinal purposes, including as a flavouring in soups and as a traditional root beer ingredient.
- Young Shoots: The young, tender shoots of American spikenard can be cooked and used as a potherb, similar to how the shoots of the related Japanese spikenard are used.
Critical Identification: Avoiding Toxic Look-alikes
One of the most important aspects of foraging for American spikenard is ensuring correct identification. Many plants in the same family or genus can have different properties. Confusion can lead to consuming toxic parts or similar species that are not edible.
- Key Identification Features for American Spikenard:
- Stems: Thick, hollow, and have a noticeable zig-zag growth pattern. The stems often have a reddish-brown or maroon hue.
- Leaves: Large, bipinnately or tripinnately compound leaves, with oval or heart-shaped leaflets that have pointed tips and coarsely toothed margins.
- Flowers & Fruit: Small, white to greenish-white flowers grow in branched clusters (panicles) in mid-summer. These are followed by hanging clusters of small, round, dark purple to red berries in late summer or fall.
American Spikenard vs. Similar Species
Understanding the differences between American spikenard and its relatives is vital for safety, especially regarding berry consumption. The edibility rules for one species do not apply to another.
| Feature | American Spikenard (Aralia racemosa) | Japanese Spikenard (Aralia cordata) | Devil's Walkingstick (Aralia spinosa) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edible Berries? | Yes, edible when ripe | No, berries should not be eaten | Not specified, exercise extreme caution |
| Edible Roots? | Yes, traditionally used, often cooked | Yes, but requires proper preparation | Not for common food use; exercise caution |
| Edible Shoots? | Yes, cooked as a potherb | Yes, a culinary delicacy known as 'Udo' | Not typically eaten |
| Stems | Thick, herbaceous, zig-zagging, and reddish | Thick and herbaceous | Spiny, woody stems |
Precautions with American Spikenard Essential Oil
While the plant itself is not poisonous when correctly identified and prepared, the same cannot be said for its essential oil. The oil, extracted from the roots, is highly concentrated and should never be ingested internally, as it can be toxic. Safe practices include:
- External Use Only: Use the essential oil topically for aromatic purposes or in massage, but always properly diluted with a carrier oil.
- Skin Sensitivity: Conduct a patch test before applying to a larger area of skin, as irritation or allergic reactions can occur.
- Contraindications: The essential oil is not recommended for use by pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and should be avoided for use around young children.
Safety for Pets and Wildlife
American spikenard provides a valuable food source for various wildlife, particularly birds, who consume its berries and help disperse seeds. For domesticated animals, however, there are some important considerations:
- Dogs: The berries and other parts are generally considered edible for dogs, but consuming large quantities may cause gastrointestinal upset.
- Cats and Livestock: Limited information is available regarding American spikenard's effects on cats and other livestock, so it is best to exercise caution and prevent them from consuming the plant.
Conclusion
American spikenard is not poisonous and is widely regarded as a safe and useful wild edible, with a long history of traditional use. The berries, roots, and young shoots can be consumed safely when correctly identified and prepared. However, the crucial takeaway is that identification must be precise to avoid confusing it with potentially toxic look-alikes, particularly the berries of Japanese spikenard. Furthermore, the concentrated essential oil is toxic if ingested and should only be used externally. By following these identification and preparation guidelines, you can safely enjoy the benefits of this remarkable native plant. For further verification of native plant species, resources like the Native Plant Trust are invaluable.
