Devil’s walking stick (Aralia spinosa)

Plant Highlights Published August 29, 2016|2 comments Devil’s walking stick (Aralia spinosa) is a small tree or tall shrub that is native to the eastern U.S. It is often found growing along the edges of forests or in open woodlands. Devil’s walking stick can be a very important plant for honey bees, native bees, and butterflies.From approximately mid-July to mid-August, devil’s walking stick produces huge clusters of white flowers. I always forget how common devil’s walking stick can be in places until I drive down the roads when it is in bloom. The white flowers produce abundant pollen and nectar that insect pollinators love. The flowers are especially attractive to honey bees and native bees.For beekeepers, the timing of the flowers is a huge plus. Mid-July to mid-August in Kentucky is during what is commonly called the summer dearth by beekeepers. The summer dearth is simply a time when there are fewer plants blooming that honey bees use. Or, at least the quantity of flowers availab...