Cultivating Fatsia Japonica (Japanese Aralia): A Guide on Its Growth
The Japanese Aralia, scientifically known as Fatsia japonica, is a popular evergreen shrub that adds a touch of the tropics to both outdoor gardens and indoor spaces. With its large, shiny, deeply lobed leaves and adaptability to various light conditions, this plant is a favourite among gardeners and homeowners alike.
Light Conditions
Japanese Aralia thrives in a variety of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade or full shade outdoors. However, strong sun can damage leaves, especially in hot climates. Indoors, bright indirect light or partial shade is ideal.
Temperature & Humidity
This plant prefers warm temperatures typical of tropical environments and should be protected from strong winds and frost outdoors. Indoors, stable room temperatures and moderate humidity levels suit it well. Misting can help in dry environments, but avoid waterlogging.
Water & Fertilizer
Water Japanese Aralia when the top third of the soil is dry, reducing watering in cooler months. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Soil & Compost
Thrive in compost-rich, slightly acidic, moist but well-drained soil. It is very adaptable to different soil types if drainage is adequate.
Pruning
Annual pruning outdoors is necessary to maintain shape and promote fuller growth. For indoor plants, light and frequent pruning or pinching young shoots encourages branching and a stockier form.
Propagation
Typically propagated by stem cuttings or division. Propagation techniques favour cutting young shoots and rooting them in moist compost.
Problems, Pests & Diseases
Susceptible to leaf damage from excessive sun or wind. Watch for pests like scale insects and aphids; regular leaf cleaning by wiping with a damp sponge helps keep pests and dust at bay. Overwatering can cause root rot, so ensure good drainage and avoid waterlogging.
Best Varieties to Grow
The common variety, Fatsia japonica, features large glossy green leaves. 'Spider’s Web', with distinctive leaf variegation and a dramatic appearance, is a low-maintenance, striking choice for garden or indoor display.
Growing Japanese Aralia
Japanese Aralia can be grown in containers indoors as houseplants. Water well the first year after planting, then it becomes drought tolerant. This plant is not toxic to dogs, cats, or horses. Seeds of Japanese Aralia sprout in a month or less.
With many Aralia varieties and cultivars like Aurea Maculata, Variegata, and Annelise available, there's a Japanese Aralia to suit every garden or indoor space. Common bugs like aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, or scales may affect Japanese Aralia, which can be controlled with horticultural oil sprays.
Use a slow-release fertilizer for shrubs, starting in spring after the last frost. Japanese Aralia is not particularly vulnerable to insect or disease problems. It is a heat-sensitive plant and grows in warm southern areas of Japan. Japanese Aralia prefers shade or dappled shade for growth.
Reach a height of 6-10 feet (1.8-3 m), pruning Japanese Aralia can increase leaf production and shape the plant. Japanese Aralia flowers in autumn and produces showy dark berries in winter. The botanical name of Japanese Aralia is Fatsia japonica.
Sources:
[1] The Spruce, Fatsia Japonica: Care and Growing Tips for Japanese Aralia. (2021). https://www.thespruce.com/japanese-aralia-care-1388787
[2] Gardening Know How, Japanese Aralia: How to Grow Fatsia Japonica. (2021). https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/fatsia/how-to-grow-fatsia-japonica.htm
[3] Monrovia, Fatsia Japonica. (2021). https://www.monrovia.com/product/Fatsia-Japonica/1292203
[4] The Garden Helper, Fatsia Japonica (Japanese Aralia) - A Beautiful Tropical-Looking Evergreen. (2021). https://www.thegardenhelper.co.uk/fatsia-japonica-japanese-aralia/
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