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Spikenard is a woodland native with a commanding presence and large compound leaves that provide a lush and structured backdrop in a shady garden. Growing upwards of 4 ft tall and equally wide, it is sometimes confused with a shrub but is in fact a true herbaceous perennial that dies back in the winter and emerges from the ground anew each spring. In late summer, after many woodland plants are finished flowering, it produces clusters of small, cream-colored blooms that mature into dark purple berries, providing seasonal interest as well as food for birds and other wildlife as their food supplies dwindle late in the year. Its roots can be used to make root beer and have been used medicinally for the treatment of a variety of ailments.
Sun: Partial, Shade
Soil: Wet, Medium-Wet, Medium
Bloom Time: July, August
Color: Green
Height: 4 ft
