How to Grow Walking Stick Trees

Overview

Walking stick trees (Aralia spinosa), also called devil's walking stick, have gray stems and large leaves that sometimes grow up to 4 feet long. The most notable features of this tree, however, are the sharp thorns that cover its trunk and the spines that line its leaves. When planted closely together, walking stick trees make a very effective natural fence. This tree usually grows between 10 and 15 feet tall, but can reach heights of up to 30 feet if provided with ideal growing conditions.

Step 1

Dig a hole that is the same depth and twice the width as the rootball of the walking stick tree. Plant the tree at the same level it was previously growing and replace the soil around the roots carefully.

Step 2

Water until the soil feels very moist, but not wet. Continue to water whenever the top inch of soil feels dry during the first growing season. After the tree has developed a sturdy root system it is only necessary to water during very dry conditions.

Step 3

Prune dead, damaged and spindly branches in late fall or early spring to control the growth and shape of the tree.

Step 4

Cover new growth in early spring if a hard frost is expected in your area.