An interesting part of my job as an extension agent is plant identification. Residents often send photos asking, “What is this plant?” Occasionally, a particularly unusual species sparks repeated questions—and suddenly it seems to appear everywhere across the parish. One such plant is Devil’s walking stick (Aralia spinosa).
This distinctive native is found throughout the southeastern United States, including Louisiana, and I’ve recently spotted it along several roads in the southern part of Livingston Parish. It is sometimes confused with elderberry at a glance, but a key difference is hard to miss—Devil’s walking stick has stout stems covered in sharp spines, while elderberry is smooth and unarmed.
Devil’s walking stick is known for its bold appearance. It is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can reach 10 to 20 feet tall and often forms colonies through root suckering. Its large, compound leaves—some reaching 3 to 4 feet in length—give it an almost tropical look. In fact, it produces the largest compound leaf of any tree native to North America. Thick stems, branches, and even leaf stalks are covered in prickles, which help protect the plant from browsing wildlife.
In South Louisiana landscapes, Devil’s walking stick thrives in partial shade to full sun and tolerates a wide range of soil conditions, from upland sites to lowland woodlands and roadside edges. While it can spread aggressively, it is not invasive—this is a native species fulfilling an important ecological role. It can be used intentionally in naturalized areas, wildlife plantings, or even as a barrier hedge where its spines discourage foot traffic.
One of the plant’s greatest strengths is its value to pollinators. In mid-to-late summer, Devil’s walking stick produces large, upright clusters of creamy white flowers that attract a wide array of beneficial insects. Bees, wasps, butterflies, and other pollinators readily visit these blooms. This late-season flowering period is especially important, providing nectar and pollen at a time when many other plants have stopped blooming. Supporting pollinators during this window helps sustain healthy insect populations and overall ecosystem balance.
After flowering, the plant produces clusters of dark purple to black berries that persist into fall. These fruits are readily eaten by birds, which in turn help disperse seeds across the landscape. This added wildlife benefit makes Devil’s walking stick a strong candidate for habitat-focused plantings.
Beyond its ecological value, Devil’s walking stick has a long history of use among Native American tribes. Various parts of the plant were used for medicinal purposes. Preparations made from roots or bark were used to address ailments such as toothaches, digestive issues, and rheumatism, and were sometimes used as a general tonic. The strong, straight stems were also fashioned into walking sticks, which likely inspired the plant’s common name.
While these traditional uses are important culturally, modern use of wild plants for medicinal purposes should be approached with caution. The bark and roots may cause skin irritation, and handling the plant requires care due to its spines.
Although beneficial, Devil’s walking stick is not suitable for every landscape. Its sharp prickles and tendency to form colonies make it a poor choice for small yards, high-traffic areas, or spaces used by children and pets. However, for landowners interested in promoting native biodiversity, it can be a valuable addition when placed in appropriate locations. Periodic thinning can help manage its spread while maintaining its ecological benefits.
Devil’s walking stick is a reminder that even the most intimidating plants can have significant value. By incorporating native species like Aralia spinosa into the landscape, homeowners and land managers in Louisiana can support pollinators, provide wildlife habitat, and connect to the region’s natural and cultural heritage. With thoughtful placement and management, this bold native can serve as both a functional asset and a unique conversation piece.
