Abstract: The present paper deals with the characteristics and geographical distribution of the genus Aralia. It also discusses the relationship between Aralia and other close genera. Having commented on various opinions regarding the systematic position of genus, the author belives that two subgenera can be distinguished by picky or pickless stems and inflorescences. They are: (1) Subgen. Aralia Picky frutex of small arbor. (2) Subgen. Paralia Shang et X. P. Li Pickless herbs. The gross morphological characteristics in the genus are assessed from the taxonomic point of view. Some characteristics such as margin and indumentum of leaves may be used to distinguish sections. 4 new sections and 6 revisions are proposed; 1 species (A. stipulata Franch. ) is re-established. The 4 new sections are: Sect.Ⅰ Undvlatae Shang et X. P. Li. Sect.Ⅱ Glaucae Shang et X. P. Li. Sect. Ⅵ Echinatae Shang et X. P. Li. Sect. V Tamentosae Shant et X. P. Li. The 6 revisions are: (1) A. subcapidata Hoo = A chinensis Linn. (2) A. hupehensis Hoo = A. chinensis Linn. (3) A. chinensis var. nuda Nakai (pro. parte. )=A stipulata Franch. (4) A. chinensis var. nuda Nakai (pro. parte. ) ?A. undulata Hand. -Mazz. (5) A. chinensis var. nuda Nakai (pro. parte.) = A. elata (Miq. ) Seem. (6) A. chinensis var. dasyphylloides Hand. -Mazz. =A. dasyphglla Miq. Aralia Linn, is a genus distributed in Asia and America. China has 29 species. A key to species is presented in the present paper, with emphasis laid on the characteristics of leaves, making the key appears more practical.