About
Fatsia japonica, the Japanese aralia, is a bold, evergreen shrub forming a spreading mound of large, deeply palmately-lobed, glossy, dark-green leaves up to 45 cm across on long stalks. In mid-autumn, rounded clusters of small, white, globose flowers are carried in broad, branching heads, followed by small, black fruits. A superb architectural foliage plant for a sheltered, shaded or sunny garden position.
About the genus
Fatsia are evergreen shrubs with stout, sparsely branched stems bearing large, leathery, palmately-lobed leaves and small white flowers in branching terminal umbels in autumn, followed by small black fruits. Bold, architectural foliage shrubs for sheltered gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitSuckering
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Architectural, City and courtyard gardens, Wildlife gardens
Native toJapan, South Korea
ToxicityFruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling 7148,faucaria-duncanii,Faucaria duncanii,,Faucaria duncanii is a small
Care notes
CultivationGrows best in moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade; can tolerate full shade
PruningPruning group 9
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects, thrips and mealybugs
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a leaf spot and honey fungus