Fatsia japonica aka Japanese Fatsia

Fatsia japonica is a medium-sized evergreen shrub that typically reaches 2-4 meters (6-13 feet) in height with a spread of 1.2-2 meters (4-6 feet). The plant grows at a moderate to fairly fast rate in favorable conditions. Its most striking feature is the large, deeply-lobed palmate leaves that can reach up to 45cm (18 inches) in diameter, giving it a bold tropical appearance. Growth tends to be upright and rounded, becoming more open and tree-like with age.

Fatsia japonica is hardy to USDA zones 7-10, tolerating temperatures down to approximately -10°C (14°F) when established. In the UK, it holds RHS hardiness rating H5. Young foliage is more susceptible to cold damage, and the plant should be protected from cold, drying winds. In severe frosts below -3°C, protective fleece may be needed. Indoors, it prefers cool conditions and does not thrive near central heating or in hot, stuffy rooms.

Fatsia japonica can be propagated from semi-ripe cuttings or seeds. For cuttings, take 20cm lengths of semi-ripe stems in late summer—these should be from current year's growth that is just starting to harden at the base. Remove the lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, and plant in moist, free-draining compost. Keep at 15-20°C and maintain humidity. Alternatively, sow seeds in peat-free compost covered lightly with vermiculite, keeping them at 15-20°C with good light.

Prune lightly in mid to late spring to maintain a pleasing shape. Remove dead and dying leaves as needed throughout the year—older leaf stems can often be snapped off cleanly where they meet the main stem for a neater appearance. For more vigorous rejuvenation, cut the oldest stems back to ground level and reduce remaining stems by about 60cm. Next year's blooms appear on new growth, so spring pruning won't affect flowering.

Repot young Fatsia japonica plants annually and mature plants every 2-3 years, or when roots begin to emerge from drainage holes. The best time is at the beginning of the growing season in spring. Choose a pot one size larger with good drainage holes and use free-draining soil rich in organic matter. For established plants in containers, refresh the top 5cm of soil annually with fresh compost even if not fully repotting.

Several striking cultivars are available. 'Spider's Web' features dark green leaves heavily speckled with white variegation that changes with age—emerging nearly white then fading to a tri-tone effect. 'Variegata' has cream to white variegation mainly around leaf edges. 'Annelise' displays cream-veined leaves with dramatic dark, mid, and light green patterning but grows slower. 'Camouflage' offers irregular yellow, lime, and green tones. 'Moseri' is a compact form with purportedly larger foliage. Note that variegated forms are generally less cold-hardy than the green species.

Fatsia japonica thrives outdoors in USDA zones 7-10 (UK hardiness H5). Choose a sheltered spot in partial to full shade with protection from cold, drying winds. It performs well in shady gardens where other plants struggle, tolerating deep shade beneath trees. Plant in moist but well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. In colder areas, apply mulch around the base for winter root protection. The plant is tolerant of air pollution and coastal salt spray, making it versatile for urban and seaside gardens.

Yellow leaves on Fatsia japonica typically indicate one of several issues. Too much sunlight is a common cause—move the plant to a shadier location as the leaves can scorch in direct sun. Nutrient deficiency may cause yellowing, especially in established plants that have depleted soil nutrients; apply a balanced fertilizer. Overwatering leads to soft, wilted yellow leaves; allow soil to dry more between waterings. Alkaline soil can inhibit iron absorption causing chlorosis. Check also for pest infestations like scale insects, which cause yellow spotting.

Brown leaves or brown patches typically result from environmental stress. Too much direct sunlight causes leaf burn, leading to brown patches and curling—relocate to a shadier spot. Low humidity causes brown, crispy leaf edges; increase humidity by misting regularly or placing on a pebble tray. Underwatering produces brown, dry leaf margins; water more consistently. Root rot from overwatering creates soft, brown areas; reduce watering and ensure good drainage. Cold damage can also cause browning, especially on young foliage exposed to frost or cold winds.

Drooping leaves usually indicate a watering problem. If the soil is very wet and water drips from the pot, the plant may have root rot—the damaged roots cannot absorb water, leaving leaves droopy despite wet soil. Reduce watering, improve drainage, and consider repotting in fresh soil if roots are soft and brown. Conversely, underwatering causes wilting as leaves lose turgor; water thoroughly and the plant should recover within hours. Extreme heat or drafts can also cause temporary drooping.

Fatsia japonica has no serious pest or disease problems, but indoor plants may encounter scale insects, mealybugs, spider mites, thrips, and aphids. Scale appears as brown bumps on stems and leaves, causing yellow spotting. Treat infestations with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Shot hole disease and leaf spot can occur—remove affected leaves promptly to prevent spread. The plant is susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Overall, it is considered a resilient, low-maintenance plant with occasional rather than persistent pest issues.

Fatsia japonica produces distinctive creamy-white flowers in autumn, appearing as spherical clusters on terminal umbels that resemble drumsticks. Each small flower is less than 1 inch across. These late-season blooms are valuable for pollinators when few other plants are flowering. After pollination, glossy black drupes (small berry-like fruits) develop, ripening in mid to late winter. Indoor plants rarely flower, as they typically need outdoor growing conditions to bloom.

The large, glossy leaves of Fatsia japonica benefit from regular cleaning to remove dust and keep them looking their best. Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth or give the plant a lukewarm shower. Clean leaves also photosynthesize more efficiently. While cleaning, inspect for pests like scale insects which appear as brown bumps. Avoid using leaf shine products as they can clog leaf pores. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves promptly to maintain plant health and appearance.

Fatsia japonica is pollinated by insects, particularly flies and wasps attracted to the nectar-rich autumn flowers. Blooming in October-November when few other plants flower, it provides an important late-season food source for pollinators. The spherical flower clusters are easily accessible to various insects. After successful pollination, the flowers develop into decorative black berries. Indoor plants rarely flower or fruit due to lack of pollinators and insufficient light conditions to trigger blooming.