Angelica Tree

Aralia elata — Araliaceae

Italiano: Aralia giapponese — Udo

angelica tree

Description

Angelica Tree (Aralia elata) belongs to the Araliaceae family and is native to Asia. It thrives in Forest edges, Mountain slopes, Clearings environments across regions including Japan, Korea, China, Far East Russia.

Botanically, Angelica Tree is tender shoots prized Japan Korea. Tempura pickled. Ginseng family.. It is also known locally as Udo.

The edible parts include Shoots young. With an edibility rating of 7/10, it ranks as a good wild food source. Harvesting is best done during April and May.

Nutritionally, Angelica Tree stands out for its Vitamin K (50.0mg, 42% DV), Vitamin C (10.0mg, 11% DV) and Vitamin A (80.0mg, 9% DV). It also provides 2.5g protein and 2.5g dietary fiber per 100g serving.

In the kitchen, Angelica Tree offers a Bitter aromatic celery flavor profile. Tempura raw pickled sauteed. Common culinary applications include tempura, pickled, raw sauteed. Popular preparations include Angel tree tempura, Pickled udo, Wild vegetable stir-fry, Steamed wild greens.

For storage, fresh 2d.

Safety note: No toxicity. Antinutrient content is mild saponins. Always verify identification with at least three independent botanical sources before consumption.

Foragers should collect angelica tree during Apr and May. Choose young, vibrant parts for optimal flavor and nutrition. Avoid specimens near polluted areas, roadsides, or treated agricultural land.

Field identification relies on recognizing the plant in its natural habitat — typically forest edges, mountain slopes, clearings. Flowers, leaf arrangement, and growth habit provide the most reliable identification markers. Always consult at least two independent botanical sources.

Traditional Asia communities have long valued angelica tree as a seasonal wild food. Its reliable growth and nutritional density made it a valuable resource during lean periods and food scarcity.

In contemporary cuisine, angelica tree pairs excellently with olive oil, garlic, and citrus. It complements wild herbs, foraged mushrooms, and hearty grains. Experiment with both raw preparations and slow-cooked dishes to appreciate its full range.

Edibility

7/10
Toxicity: No toxicity
Antinutrients: Mild saponins
Safe lookalikes: No edible similar shoot
Dangerous: No poisonous similar

Harvest Calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Edible parts: Shoots young
Preparation: Tempura raw pickled sauteed
Flavor: Bitter aromatic celery

Nutrition (per 100g)

Protein: 2.5g
Fat: 0.3g
Fiber: 2.5g
Vitamin C: 10.0mg (11%DV)
Vitamin A: 80mcg (8%DV)
Vitamin E: 0.5mg (3%DV)
Vitamin K: 50mcg (41%DV)
Folate (B9): 12mcg (3%DV)
Calcium: 30.0mg (2%DV)
Iron: 0.8mg (4%DV)
Magnesium: 25mg (5%DV)
Potassium: 180mg (3%DV)
Zinc: 0.4mg (3%DV)

Culinary Uses

tempura, pickled, raw sauteed

Storage

Fresh 2d

Recipes

  • Angel tree tempura
  • Pickled udo
  • Wild vegetable stir-fry
  • Steamed wild greens
  • Vegetable tart
  • Stir-fried Angelica Tree
  • Angelica Tree tempura
  • Angelica Tree and tofu soup

Where It Grows

Continent: Asia
Regions: Japan, Korea, China, Far East Russia
Habitat: Forest edges, Mountain slopes, Clearings