Fatsia japonica

Japanese aralia, castor oil plant

(22 customer reviews)

From: £34.95

The Japanese Aralia is a low maintenance, striking evergreen shrub with a notably tropical feel.

Fatsia japonica features iconic lobed leaves, and produces pleasing white flowers and black berries in autumn.

Item code:
FJA-7.5
Pot size:
7.5Ltr pot
£34.95
Item code:
FJA-18
Pot size:
18Ltr pot
Height:
120/130cm tall
£89.95
Origin: Southern Japan
Genus: Fatsia
Species / Cultivar: japonica
Common Name: Japanese aralia, castor oil plant
Synonym: Aralia sieboldii

Plant Biography

Fatsia japonica, commonly known as Japanese aralia, is an evergreen shrub native to southern Japan and South Korea. First described by Carl Peter Thunberg in 1784, it belongs to the Araliaceae family. The plant is noted for its large, glossy, palmate leaves and was introduced to Western horticulture in the 19th century. It quickly became popular in Europe and North America for its tropical appearance and hardiness.

Fatsia japonica is valued in traditional Japanese gardens and has been cultivated for its ornamental qualities, adaptability to shade, and resistance to urban pollution. It continues to be a favoured plant for both indoor and outdoor landscapes. Many variegated cultivars are now available including ‘Spider’s Web’ and ‘Camouflage’.

Fatsia japonica
Soil: Moist but Well Drained
Soil that allows water to drain at a moderate rate, without the water pooling.
Growth Rate: Medium
Expect to see moderate growth during growing season.
Water Requirement: Medium
Once it is established, this plant is likely to only require watering during drier periods.
Maintenance: Low
Minimal skill or input needed beyond the basics, a very independent plant.
Situation: Part Shade to Full Shade
Can enjoy several hours of direct sunlight, but also happy in full shade.
Eventual Height: 4-8m
The plant's ultimate height in typical growing conditions.
Eventual Spread: 4-8m
The plant's ultimate spread in typical growing conditions.
Hardiness: Fully Hardy
Will survive unprotected outdoors in most areas of the UK, even in the harshest winters.
Habit: Evergreen
Always in leaf throughout the year. It won't lose all its leaves at any one time.

Expert Tip

Fatsia japonica looks fantastic planted amongst other plants with a particularly tropical feel, such as bamboo or palms.
Care & Size Guidance

Care & Size Guidance

Fatsia japonica, or Japanese aralia, is an evergreen shrub that thrives in partial to full shade and prefers well-drained, fertile soil. It will survive in full sun, but plants tend to look better when given some shade, particularly from the afternoon sun. Regular watering is essential, particularly in dry periods, but avoid waterlogging. In colder climates, protect the plant from hard frosts.

Pruning in spring helps maintain its shape and encourages new growth. Fatsia japonica is relatively low-maintenance, resistant to pests and diseases, and tolerant of urban pollution, making it an excellent choice for shaded garden areas or as a houseplant. Its large, glossy leaves add a lush, tropical feel to any setting.

Ordered 3 Fatsia’s, all received on time. Great quality, very healthy plants and all equally sized!

Amanda F.

Ordered 3 Fatsia’s, all received on time. Great quality, very healthy plants and all equally sized!

22 customer reviews for Fatsia japonica

Lovely healthy plant, size as anticipated, arrived quickly cant fault anything.
Thank you.

lynn clarke

Excellent service from order to delivery. Arrived next day in perfect condition and just what I wanted.

Philip A.

Plant slightly different than expected as it is a single trunk rather than the multi-stem plant in the photo, however it is absolutely beautiful and truly impressive in size and health. I’m delighted and would definitely buy again. Thank you Palm Centre!

Tom W.

Extremely healthy plant and amazing price for the size.

Lawrence Bowen