Japanese Aralia

Botanic Garden >> Gardening > >> Houseplants >> Plant Care

Japanese Aralia

Botanical Name: Fatsia japonica

Japanese Aralia for Sale
from: Nature Hills Nursery, Inc.

Japanese aralia is a member of the Araliaceae family commonly grown outdoors in frost-free climates. Indoors, it can be kept small by regular pruning. Cut it back drastically in spring -- by half when necessary -- and pinch off growing tips to encourage branching.

Long, upright leaf stems hold glossy, lobed leaves with pointed tips. Each leaf has between 7-9 lobes and can reach up to 12 in (30 cm) across.

Clusters of creamy-white flowers may appear on mature plants in fall, followed by green fruit that turn black as they ripen. However, it rarely flowers indoors.

This fast-growing, evergreen shrub is easy to care for. You can keep it happy by watering regularly.

Repot in spring when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a heavy container to prevent toppling, because plants can get top-heavy. Larger plants can be top-dressed instead by replacing the top 2-3 in (5-7.5 cm) with fresh potting mix. Use a pot with drainage holes to prevent soggy potting mix, which can cause root rot.

Watch for pests. Check leaves regularly for spider mites, aphids and mealy bugs. Treat any infestation immediately.

You can move it outdoors in summer if you want. Just be sure to put it in a shaded spot outside because direct sun can burn its leaves. The cool, moist and shady environment F. japonica prefers may attract botrytis. Remove any affected leaves and spray with a fungicide. It's a good idea to keep the plant where it will get good air circulation.

This plant needs a rest in winter. Move it to a cool spot where the temperature doesn't dip below 45°F/7°C and water less frequently.