Fatsia Japonica

Fatsia japonica is one of our favourite plants for bringing a bold, tropical feel to the home or garden. Its large, glossy, hand-shaped leaves create an impressive display, yet this handsome evergreen is surprisingly easy to care for. It is particularly useful for filling a cool room or a sheltered, shady position outdoors.

Origin

Fatsia japonica originates from the woodlands and coastal areas of Japan and South Korea. In its natural habitat, it grows beneath taller trees in cool, sheltered and partially shaded conditions. It is commonly known as Japanese aralia or the glossy-leaved paper plant.

Light

• Place an indoor Fatsia in bright, indirect light.
• It will tolerate lower light, although its growth may become slower.
• Protect the leaves from strong midday sunshine, which can cause scorching.
• A position near an east- or north-facing window is usually ideal.
• Outdoors, choose a sheltered position in partial or dappled shade.
• Variegated varieties may need slightly brighter light to maintain their markings.

Watering

• Water when the top few centimetres of compost feel dry.
• Water thoroughly and allow the excess to drain away.
• Keep the compost lightly moist during spring and summer, but never waterlogged.
• Reduce watering during autumn and winter as growth slows.
• Do not allow an indoor plant to stand in water.
• Outdoor plants may require additional watering during prolonged hot or dry weather.
• Drooping leaves can indicate thirst, although consistently wet compost may produce similar symptoms.

Temperature and Humidity

• Fatsia japonica prefers cool to average household temperatures.
• Keep indoor plants away from radiators and very hot, dry rooms.
• Protect them from sudden temperature changes and strong draughts.
• Outdoor plants are reasonably hardy once established, but young or pot-grown plants may need protection during severe frost.
• Choose a sheltered outdoor position away from cold, drying winds.
• Average household humidity is normally suitable.
• Occasional misting or a pebble tray may help an indoor plant in a particularly dry room.

Feeding

• Feed every four weeks during spring and summer.
• Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser for indoor plants.
• Feed outdoor plants with a general-purpose fertiliser in spring.
• Dilute liquid feed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Do not feed dry compost.
• Stop feeding during autumn and winter when growth naturally slows.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Remove yellow, damaged or untidy leaves at the base of their stems.
• Prune during spring to control the plant’s size and shape.
• Cut back long or bare stems to encourage bushier growth.
• Use clean, sharp secateurs when pruning.
• Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin, as the sap may occasionally cause irritation.
• Wipe indoor leaves gently with a damp cloth to remove dust.
• Avoid using leaf-shine products, which can interfere with the leaves’ natural surface.

Potting and Repotting

• Use a fertile, free-draining multipurpose compost.
• Choose a sturdy pot with drainage holes.
• Repot indoor plants every two to three years or when they become root-bound.
• Repot during spring, when active growth is beginning.
• Move the plant into a container only slightly larger than its current pot.
• Use a heavy pot for mature specimens, as their large leaves can make them top-heavy.
• Refresh the upper layer of compost annually if the plant does not need a larger container.

Growing Outdoors

• Plant in moist but well-drained soil.
• Choose a position with partial or full shade.
• Shelter the plant from strong winds, which can damage its large leaves.
• Leave sufficient room for it to develop into a substantial shrub.
• Apply a layer of mulch in spring to help retain moisture and improve the soil.
• Protect young plants during their first few winters.
• Move container-grown plants to a sheltered spot during severe winter weather.

Common Problems

• Yellow leaves often indicate overwatering or poor drainage.
• Brown, crispy leaf edges can be caused by dry compost, hot air or excessive sunlight.
• Pale or scorched patches usually indicate too much direct sun.
• Long, weak growth may be a sign of insufficient light.
• Blackened leaves can result from frost or cold-wind damage.
• Watch for scale insects, mealybugs, aphids and red spider mites.
• Check beneath the leaves and around the stems regularly for signs of pests.

Pet Safety

• Fatsia japonica is classed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
• Although it is considered pet-friendly, pets should not be encouraged to chew the leaves.
• Eating a large quantity of any plant material may still cause mild digestive upset.
• Position the plant where energetic pets cannot knock over its pot.
• Remove damaged or fallen leaves promptly.
• If your pet eats a large amount or develops vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy or another unusual symptom, contact your vet for advice.
• Make sure the plant is correctly identified, as some similar-looking houseplants may not be pet-safe.

Our Tip

Give your Fatsia a cool, sheltered position away from harsh sunshine. Keep the compost lightly moist during the growing season and regularly wipe its magnificent leaves—this will keep it looking fresh, glossy and beautifully tropical.

Sold without decorative pot, colour and size may vary slightly.