Devil's Club

Oplopanax horridus (Araliaceae) is a deciduous shrub native to western North America from south-central Alaska to southern Oregon, with disjunct populations near Lake Superior. It grows to about 12 feet tall and 6 feet wide. The entire plant is densely armed with irritating yellowish spines on shoots, leaf petioles, and even the inflorescence. Large, palmate leaves (15 to 25 cm, 5 to 13 lobes) give it a bold tropical look. Greenish-white flowers appear in dense terminal clusters, followed by scarlet-red drupes (8 mm).

Devil's club inhabits moist forests and wet sites, growing in part shade to full shade on moderately well-drained to poorly drained soils with moderate water needs. The dense spines are a significant hazard (contact causes irritation). The species has extensive traditional medicinal and ceremonial importance among indigenous peoples of the region. Bears feed heavily on the bright red fruits. Not suitable for high-traffic garden areas. Hardy in Zones 5a to 8b.