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Fatsia japonica (Aralia, Fatsia, or Glossy Leaf Paper Plant)

Aralia, Fatsia, or Glossy Leaf Paper Plant

Fatsia japonica

Discontinued

Native to Japan, Aralia is one of the few plants appreciated for its leaves over the blooms. The leaves are palmately lobed and average twelve inches wide, located on the end of petioles that can be up to three feet long. “Fatsia” is Japanese for the number eight, as the leaves typically have eight lobes.


The thick stems of Aralia can’t always bear the weight of the leaves -- they may bend to the side, eventually resting on the ground and prominently displaying the old leaf scars. Small white flowers are borne from the top of the stem in the early winter, sometimes unnoticed against the foliage.


Aralia requires moist soils, and appreciates it slightly acidic. Freezing temperatures can damage the entire plant, so mulch well and plant in a protected area anywhere in cold regions of Texas. 

Shade Specimen
Container Plant

Flower Color:

Cream-White

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Height

4 Feet

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Spread

4 Feet


USDA Hardiness Zone 8b

Characteristics & Attributes

Deer Tolerance
Medium
Exposure
Part Shade to Full Shade
Habit
Evergreen
Water Needs
Medium