American Spikenard, Aralia racemosa is a shrubby looking perennial in the ginseng family. It has small clusters of greenish white flowers that are followed by dark red berries. Berries are edible but not particularly tasty, the roots have medicinal properties. American spikenard is shade tolerant and has thick leafy stems that make it a good replacement for hostas. 

Bloom time: Late summer, berries in fall

Wildlife benefits: Nectar source, food source for birds, cover

Uses: Shady gardens, understory plantings, edible garden

Conditions: Shade to part shade, rich well drained soils.