Overview
Oplopanax japonicus is a bushy shrubs in the genus Oplopanax, part of the Araliaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Oplopanax japonicus grows best in full shade and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include architectural and sub-tropical.
About
Oplopanax japonicus is a deciduous shrub cultivar within the Oplopanax genus, known for its bushy habit and spiny branches. This plant thrives in full or partial shade, favouring north-, east-, or west-facing, sheltered aspects. It grows well in a variety of soil types including clay, loam, and sand, particularly in moist but well-drained or poorly-drained acidic soils. Hardy to UK zone H7, it is suitable for architectural and sub-tropical garden settings, offering interest in spring and summer. Cultivation involves planting in well-drained soil with propagation possible by seed, softwood cuttings, or layering.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Oplopanax
- Sunlight
- Full shade, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Oplopanax japonicus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, Sub-tropical
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Oplopanax japonicus
- Propagation
- Seed, Softwood cuttings, Layering
- Pest resistance
- Generally problem free
- Disease resistance
- Generally problem free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Oplopanax japonicus?
Oplopanax japonicus prefers full shade and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Oplopanax japonicus need?
Oplopanax japonicus is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to poorly-drained.
Is Oplopanax japonicus hardy in the UK?
Oplopanax japonicus has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Oplopanax japonicus?
Seed, Softwood cuttings, Layering.