Aralia Elata Aureovariegata Angelica Tree

Aralia Elata Aureovariegata, commonly known as the Angelica Tree Aureovariegata, is a striking deciduous small tree or shrub grown for its dramatic variegated foliage and architectural bushy form. A member of the Araliaceae family, this cultivar is prized for its ornamental value, particularly in shaded gardens where its bold leaves add light and contrast. This variety of Angelica Tree has earned the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit, highlighting its reliability and performance in UK gardens.

Aralia Elata Aureovariegata forms a large, upright, suckering shrub or small tree with an exotic and almost tropical appearance. Its most eye-catching feature is the enormous, pinnate leaves, which are made up of paired leaflets edged with creamy yellow margins. The underside of each leaflet is paler, further enhancing the plant’s luminous effect, especially in shaded corners of the garden. As the season progresses, the foliage turns warm shades of gold and bronze, adding seasonal interest well into autumn with striking colour.

In late summer through early autumn, the plant produces sprays of small white flowers in large panicles held above the foliage. These nectar-rich blooms attract pollinators and are followed by clusters of small black berries that provide additional late-season interest. Compared to other varieties such as Aralia Elata or Aralia Elata Variegata, this cultivar has more irregular and pronounced yellow variegation (Elata Variegata having a white-green variegation).

Height and Width of Aralia Elata Aureovariegata

This plant typically grows to around 6 to 8 metres tall and spreads to approximately 4 to 6 metres wide over time. Its suckering habit means it can form thickets unless managed, making it ideal for naturalistic plantings or as a bold specimen in larger spaces.

How hardy is Angelica Tree Aureovariegata?

Angelica Tree Aureovariegata is hardy throughout most parts of the UK and copes well with cold winters. Once established, it is a resilient plant that can tolerate a range of conditions, including urban pollution and exposed locations.

Uses in Garden and / or Landscape

This variety is particularly useful for bringing structure and foliage interest to shady areas of the garden. It’s well suited to woodland-style plantings, large borders, or as a focal point where its striking foliage can be appreciated up close. Its late-season flowers and fruit also support wildlife, making it a good choice for biodiversity-friendly gardens.

Care Tips

Plant in fertile, well-drained soil in full to partial shade. While it tolerates shade well, a spot with dappled light will bring out the best variegation in the leaves. Mulch in spring to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Prune suckers if you want to restrict its spread, or allow it to naturalise if space permits. Little routine pruning is required beyond shaping and removing any dead or damaged stems.

Native to East Asia, particularly Japan, Korea, and China, the Aralia Elata family has long been admired for its ornamental qualities. The Aureovariegata cultivar offers an especially decorative twist with its creamy-yellow leaf margins and upright habit.