Oplopanax japonicus (Araceae) Deciduous shrub

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Oplopanax japonicus
Deciduous shrub
(1 Page of 5)

The Oplopanax japonicus plant species is found in E. Asia - Japan. It is a member of the Araceae family.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
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Latin Name:  Oplopanax japonicus
Family:  Araceae
Author:  (Nak.)Nak.

Known Hazards:  The plant is densly armed with spikes and these spikes are irritant[200]. Although no specific mention has been seen for this plant, it belongs to a genus where the species are usuallys rich in calcium oxylate, this is toxic and if consumed makes the mouth and digestive tract feel as though hundreds of needles are being stuck into it. However, calcium oxylate is easily destroyed by thoroughly cooking or drying the plant.

Mature Height:  3   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Moist woods, especially by streams[11] and usually in rich soils[99].

Cultivation Notes: Requires a cool moist soil[11, 200]. Prefers a position in light shade[182]. Prefers dense shade and is probably best if grown in moist woodland[1, 11]. Tolerates maritime exposure[200]. (Rather a strange report for a plant that needs to be grown in dense shade[K]) A very hardy plant, tolerating temperatures down to at least -15°c, but the young shoots in spring can be damaged by late frosts[11, 200]. It is therefore best not grown in a frost pocket[182]. This species used to be included in O. horridus as the Japanese form of that species, but it has recently (1991) been recognised as a distinct species[200]. A very ornamental plant, but it is densly armed with spikes[60]. It transplants easily and also tolerates pruning[200]. The leaves and stems are excessively spiny[182].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

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