Japanese Aralia

Shrub

Japanese Aralia

Fatsia japonica

Glossy, hand-shaped evergreen leaves bring a jungle feel to sheltered shade.

  • Full shade, Full sun, Partial shade
  • 2.5–4 m (8–13 ft)
  • 2.5–4 m (8–13 ft)
  • H5
  • October–November
  • Evergreen

Overview

A versatile large shrub for a shady courtyard or tropical border. Mature plants can flower late in the year and carry berries afterwards. It tolerates deep shade, although growth and flowering are stronger in brighter conditions. Shelter foliage from cold drying winds. Source: https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/7147/fatsia-japonica/details

At a Glance

Sun Full shade, Full sun, Partial shade
Height 2.5–4 m (8–13 ft)
Spread 2.5–4 m (8–13 ft)
Hardiness H5
Flowers October–November
Soil Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Moisture Moist well drained
Habit Spreading
Water Moderate
Maintenance Easy

Growing Conditions

Min. Temperature -15°C (5°F)
Fertility Fertile
Drainage Free Draining

Aspect Suitability

  • North-facing
  • East-facing
  • South-facing
  • West-facing

Soil Tolerance

  • Clay
  • Chalk
  • Sandy
  • Loam
  • Acid
  • Neutral pH
  • Alkaline

Foliage

Persistence Evergreen
Colour Green
Leaf shape / texture Palmately lobed
  • Architectural foliage

Foliage interest: 12 months of the year

Seasonal Timeline

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Flowering
Foliage
Fruiting
Propagate
  • Flowering Oct Nov
  • Foliage 12 months of the year
  • Fruiting Feb Mar Apr
  • Propagate Jul Aug Sep

Maintenance Calendar

  • Apr Shorten selected leggy stems if needed
  • Apr Add compost around the root zone
  • Jul Water during prolonged dry weather
  • Nov Inspect leaf undersides for scale insects

Garden Design

Works well in: Contemporary, Cottage, Tropical, Woodland

Use broad glossy foliage behind fine fern fronds. Allow for its eventual width near paths. Ratings for wildlife, tropical appearance and architecture are editorial estimates on a 1-5 scale. Spacing and care months are UK planning guides; adjust to local conditions.

Companion planting: Ferns, Shade perennials, Bamboos

Wildlife Value

  • Bees
  • Butterflies
  • Moths
  • Other pollinators
  • Birds
  • Beneficial insects
  • Shelter
  • Food source

Safety

  • Toxic to humans
  • Skin irritant

Fruit is ornamental and should not be eaten by people or pets. Wear gloves when pruning; avoid sap contact. Blank toxicity flags mean unverified, not confirmed safe.