Grown for their large, divided fern-like leaves, these dramatic shrubs or small trees lend a tropical touch to the garden. Exotic-looking trees can grow 25-30 feet tall, and are best as an accent in large gardens or in a semi-wild setting. Flowers are small but produced in clusters that give them a showy look in midsummer. Small, purplish fruit attract birds. Do not grow these near swimming pools because stems and leaves often have prominent spines that can cause injury. Because of suckers, they are often shrubby. Remove suckers for a tree shape. Most can be raised from seed. Propogate striped-leafed kinds by grafting or budding onto thick pieces of root from green-leafed types. Suckers or root cuttings also can be used to increase.
This type of Japanese Angelica has striking 3-foot long leaves.