Japanese Aralia
fatsia japonica
Also known as: ["Paperplant","Rabbit's Foot"]
Overview
A striking evergreen shrub with large, glossy, palmate leaves and architectural form, native to southern Japan.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Araliaceae |
| Genus: | Fatsia |
| Botanical Name: | Fatsia japonica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or shaded garden area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: every 1–2 weeks, especially in dry indoor environments
- Drainage: Well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining potting mix with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light; tolerates partial shade; adjust for 4–6 hours of light in summer, less in winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid direct afternoon sun; provide dappled light outdoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
rich, moist, well-draining soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pH balance.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate temperatures year-round.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone can be used but is not strictly necessary.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back leggy stems; remove yellow or damaged leaves; shape for aesthetic balance.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged leaves; shape the plant to maintain form; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape evenly; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), wilting or leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots; avoid cold drafts; protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to summer); reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild to moderate irritation and gastrointestinal distress if they ingest parts of Fatsia japonica. The plant's calcium oxalates can cause oral and digestive tract irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Fatsia japonica can lead to mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of insoluble calcium oxalates. The plant is not typically life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicFatsia japonica contains insoluble calcium oxalates, which can cause irritation and inflammation upon ingestion. The plant's effects are generally mild to moderate, primarily affecting the gastrointestinal tract and oral mucosa.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Fatsia japonica toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Can Fatsia japonica be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, indirect light indoors and prefers humid conditions.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Fatsia japonica turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves can indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or insufficient light.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araliaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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