American Angelica-tree
Aralia spinosa
Last reviewed: June 2026
American Angelica-tree is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
240"–480" H × 120"–240" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 19 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
American angelica-tree is a small native tree with tropical-looking compound leaves and distinctive spiny stems. It produces large clusters of white flowers in summer followed by dark berries, creating a bold architectural presence in the landscape.
In an HOA neighborhood
American Angelica-tree takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Sharp thorns on stems pose safety concerns
- Suckers aggressively and can look unkempt
- Unusual appearance may be considered too wild for formal landscapes
Wildlife value
Host plant for luna moth.
The abundant summer flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles, while the berries provide food for birds. This tree serves as a host plant for several native moth species.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like American Angelica-tree and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.