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Public Plant Profile

Sun King Spikenard

Aralia cordata 'Sun King'

Category: Perennial • Spikenard

Sun King Spikenard features vibrant golden leaves and is ideal for shaded gardens.

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Mature Height: 3-5 feet

Mature Width: 3-5 feet

Light: Part Sun/Part Shade

Zone: Zones 3-7

Maintenance: Moderate

Growth Rate: Moderate

Season of Interest: Multi-season

Foliage: Deciduous

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Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Sun King Spikenard is a vibrant perennial known for its striking golden foliage. This plant adds a splash of color to any garden and thrives in various light conditions. It is a great choice for borders or as a focal point in shaded areas, providing both beauty and texture throughout the growing season.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in partial to full shade with consistent moisture. Prefers rich, well-drained soil.

Soil Preferences

Well-drained, moist, slightly acidic to neutral pH, adaptable to various soil types.

Sun Needs

Part Sun/Part Shade

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

specimenbordermass planting

Special Features

Bright golden foliageattractive clusters of white flowers.

Wildlife Value

Attracts pollinators and provides habitat for wildlife.

Resistance / Tolerance

Tolerates humidity and shade.

Notes from Our Designer

Great for adding color to shady areas. Works well in woodland gardens.

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Design Ideas Using This Plant

Use this page to get a feel for where Sun King Spikenard may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

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Helpful Next Steps

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sun King Spikenard a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

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