Commonly known as the Japanese aralia , this is an attractive evergreen shrub native to southern Japan and South Korea. It has striking, glossy, lobed leaves that can reach up to 30 cm wide, giving it a lush, tropical appearance. The shrub typically grows to about 1–2 metres tall and wide, though it can sometimes grow larger in favorable conditions. Small, creamy-white flowers are produced in late autumn and early winter, followed by shiny black berries. It is a versatile plant, thriving in shade or partial sun.
