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Plant Profiles / Japanese aralia
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Japanese aralia
Fatsia japonica · Fatsia, paperplant
Big, glossy, hand-shaped leaves for a lush look in shade.
Part to full shadeLight
WeeklyWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Part to full shade
ShadeFull sun
Shade.
Water
Weekly
DryWet
Even.
Humidity
Average
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
-10–30°C (14–86°F)
CoolWarm
Hardy.
Growth
Moderate
SlowFast
1.5–2 m.
Soil
Rich mix
LeanRich
Potting mix.
Fertiliser
Spring
RarelyOften
Balanced.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Low toxicity.
About this plant
From Japan. Handles shade and cool weather; white flower balls in autumn.
Best spots
Shaded balconies and courtyards.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Fatsia japonica |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Origin | Japan |
| Plant type | Shrub |
| Mature size | 1.5–2 m |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Foliage | Hand-shaped |
| Toxicity | Low |
| Propagation | Cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Flowering
Prune
FloweringPrune
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Scorch | Sun. |
| Yellow | Wet. |
| Scale | Oil. |
| Leggy | Prune. |
| Brown | Wind. |
Common questions
Shade?
Yes.
Pets?
Low risk.
Indoor?
Yes.
Size?
2 m.
