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Fatsia japonica

Image of Fatsia japonica

Felder Rushing

Family

Araliaceae

Botanical Name

Fatsia japonica

Plant Common Name

Japanese Fatsia, Paperplant

General Description

Enormous palm-shaped evergreen leaves are the most appealing attribute of Japanese fatsia. These are enhanced by openly branched clusters of creamy white flowers in autumn. This Japanese native thrives in shaded spots and naturally inhabits forested lands. It can be somewhat invasive and has become naturalized across many parts of the world. Several cultivars exist, the most beautiful having variegated foliage.

The deeply lobed, palmate leaves of this upright bushy shrub are glossy green with prominent greenish white venation. They are leathery to the touch and remain attractive all season long. Late in the season, interesting branched inflorescences hold rounded clusters of tiny ivory flowers at the branch tips. After pollination by ants and other insects, rounded heads of black, globose fruits develop. These mature in fall or winter and are eaten by birds.

Japanese fatsia thrives in nearly full sun to mostly shady locations sheltered from hot sun and harsh, drying winds. It is tolerant of salt spray and air pollution. Specimens can sucker from the base and become large and sprawling. Plant as a striking accent for shrub borders or architectural settings, such as courtyards or walled gardens. Variegated selections like the beautifully speckled 'Spider's Web' and ivory mottled 'Variegata' are especially nice.

Characteristics

  • AHS Heat Zone

    10 - 8

  • USDA Hardiness Zone

    8 - 10

  • Sunset Zone

    H1, H2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24

  • Plant Type

    Shrub

  • Sun Exposure

    Partial Shade, Full Shade

  • Height

    5'-12' / 1.5m - 3.7m (8)

  • Width

    5'-12' / 1.5m - 3.7m (6)

  • Bloom Time

    Fall, Late Fall, Early Winter, Winter

  • Native To

    Japan, Korea

Growing Conditions

  • Soil pH

    Acidic, Neutral

  • Soil Drainage

    Average

  • Soil type

    Clay, Loam, Sand

  • Tolerances

    Pollution, Salt

  • Growth Rate

    Medium

  • Water Requirements

    Drought Tolerant, Average Water

  • Habit

    Upright/Erect

  • Seasonal Interest

    Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Ornamental Features

  • Flower Interest

    Showy

  • Flower Color

    Ivory

  • Fruit Color

    Black

  • Foliage Color (Spring)

    Dark Green

  • Foliage Color (Summer)

    Dark Green

  • Foliage Color (Fall)

    Dark Green

  • Foliage Color (Winter)

    Dark Green

  • Bark Color

    Green

  • Fragrant Flowers

    No

  • Fragrant Fruit

    No

  • Fragrant Foliage

    No

  • Bark or Stem Fragrant

    No

  • Flower Petal Number

    Single

  • Repeat Bloomer

    No

  • Showy Fruit

    Yes

  • Edible Fruit

    No

  • Showy Foliage

    Yes

  • Foliage Texture

    Bold

  • Foliage Sheen

    Glossy

  • Evergreen

    Yes

  • Showy Bark

    No

Special Characteristics

  • Bark Texture

    Smooth

  • Usage

    Container, Feature Plant, Foundation, Houseplant, Mixed Border

  • Sharp or Has Thorns

    No

  • Invasive

    Sometimes

  • Attracts

    Birds

  • Self-Sowing

    No