Oplopanax horridus

Oplopanax horridus, commonly known as Devil’s Club, is a large, spiny shrub native to the Pacific Northwest. It has distinctive, jagged leaves and bright red berries. Traditionally, Indigenous peoples used its roots and bark for medicinal purposes, such as treating infections and aches. The plant contains compounds believed to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Despite its benefits, Devil’s Club can cause skin irritation due to its spines and milky sap. It thrives in moist, forested environments and plays a vital role in its ecosystem, offering habitat and food for wildlife.