(5in0cn9 Jfamlli^. 



Spikenard. Aralia racemosa. 



Spignet (Vt.). 



Found along rich woods and wayside thickets, in blossom in 

 August. 



A widely branching plant, from 3 to 6 feet high, with a large, 

 strong, round stem ; dull gray-black, not unlike willow charcoal in ap- 

 pearance. 



The very large compound leaf is divided into 3 clusters, each one 

 of which has from 5 to 7 leaflets, on short, curved foot stems ; the leaf- 

 lets are broad, of an irregular oblong shape, with a finely notched 

 margin, and a slightly downy surface. In color a strong full green ; 

 with dark stems. 



The very small flower has its parts in fives, and is greenish white ; 

 the flowers are on pale foot-stems and arranged in little round clusters ; 

 many small clusters together form the large compound group on the 

 ends of the branches, and from the angles of the upper leaves. 



In September the plant ripens a small red berry, of a spicy, resin- 

 ous taste, agreeable to a confirmed wayfarer. The large joints are fitted 

 together with excellent workmanship. This striking plant, with its 

 wide-spreading, vigorous leafage, and dark stems, possesses highly 

 decorative qualities ; it is cherished by country folk, however, for the 

 medicinal use they find for the root which is " good for a cough." 



