I moved to West Marin about a year ago and have been getting to know some of the plants that grow locally. I’ve been paying close attention to one plant in particular, as it only grows in our bio region, making it rare and unique. This plant is Aralia Californica, commonly known as Spikenard or Elk Clover.
One day, I was out for a walk and decided to bring Aralia a flower that was particularly beautiful. I immediately got a “Thank You!” from the plant. I was bit taken aback, as I’ve never received such an enthusiastic response from a plant before. So, I asked the plant if there was anything else that I could do for it. Aralia said, “please take my leaf up to my relatives, the trees that are at the top of the mountain ridge.”
Before I set out to hike to the top of the ridge with the Aralia leaf, I asked for additional guidance from the plant. I heard two knocks and looked up to see a pair of Douglas Firs to help me on my way. As I made my way to the top, I checked in with the trees, and this is the story of how they made Aralia:
The trees came together to make Aralia, so they could have a friend underfoot. Each gave a piece of themselves, which is reflected in this beautiful plant.
Maple gave its branches to help the plant grow tall, while the Toyon’s branches formed the shape to hold the flowers and berries, like a hand cradling the plants medicine.
Elder and Elm both gave their leaves – elder giving its complex shape, while elm helped make the leaves bigger with serrated edges.
Elder also gave its berries, which are deeply purple and nourishing.
The Fir gave its wisdom and is a constant companion to Aralia. They connect deep under the ground through their root systems. This is why the roots of Aralia are so strong and resinous.
The Oak gave her acorn, the womb that nurtured the different parts of the trees to create the seeds that eventually bore the first Aralia plant. The flowers of Aralia bloom in a radiant crown bursting out from a central point, much like the crown of the acorn. Fitting for this Queen of the River.
Once the seeds were mature, two Firs helped to hoist the seeds up and flung them over the ridge.
The Redwoods waited below in the valley and eagerly batted down the seeds with their tall branches and flat leaves, so happy to for the new friend. They provided a protected place for the seeds to take root, amongst their roots and leaf litter.
This is the story is how Aralia was made. It’s a beautiful reminder that you never know who or what can change you, especially when you have an open mind and heart.
