Contents
Description
Fatshedera is a hybrid plant that combines the features of two popular houseplants: Fatsia japonica and Hedera helix. It is also known as Aralia Ivy or Tree Ivy, and it belongs to the Araliaceae family. This evergreen shrub is native to Japan, and it was first introduced in the US in the 1960s. Fatshedera is a versatile plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors, and it is prized for its attractive foliage and easy maintenance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Fatshedera |
Appearance
Fatshedera has large, glossy, dark green leaves that are deeply lobed and resemble those of the Fatsia japonica. The leaves can grow up to 10 inches long and 8 inches wide, and they have a leathery texture. The plant also produces small, white flowers in the fall, but they are not particularly showy. Fatshedera can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide, and it has a bushy, spreading habit. It is often used as a ground cover or a hedge, but it can also be trained to grow as a tree.
Care Guide
Fatshedera is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to keep your Fatshedera healthy:- Water: Fatshedera prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate some drought. Water the plant regularly, but make sure the soil is well-drained to avoid root rot.- Fertilization: Feed your Fatshedera with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer to promote growth and foliage development.- Soil: Fatshedera prefers rich, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate various soil types, but it does not like heavy clay soils.- Sunlight: Fatshedera prefers partial shade to full shade, and it can tolerate low light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: Fatshedera is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11, but it can also be grown as a houseplant in colder regions.
Common Pests & Diseases
Fatshedera is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still be affected by some common problems, such as:- Spider mites: These tiny insects can infest the plant and cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.- Mealybugs: These white, cottony insects can feed on the sap of the plant and cause stunted growth and leaf drop. Use rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap to kill them.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown or black spots on the leaves and lead to defoliation. Remove the affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Fatshedera is native to the forests and hillsides of Japan, where it grows in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. It can also be found in some parts of Europe and the US, where it is often grown as a landscape plant or a houseplant. Fatshedera can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and humidity levels, but it prefers a mild, humid climate.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Fatshedera be grown as a bonsai?
A: Yes, Fatshedera can be trained to grow as a bonsai tree. However, it requires regular pruning and shaping to maintain its size and shape.
Q: How often should I water my Fatshedera?
A: Water your Fatshedera regularly, but make sure the soil is well-drained to avoid root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
Q: Is Fatshedera toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Fatshedera can be toxic to pets if ingested. It contains saponins, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms in dogs and cats.
Q: How fast does Fatshedera grow?
A: Fatshedera can grow up to 1-2 feet per year under ideal conditions. However, its growth rate can vary depending on the environment and the care it receives.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Fatshedera:- Fatsia japonica- Hedera helix- Aralia cordata- Aralia spinosa- Schefflera arboricola
References
– “Fatshedera Lizei.” Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a526. Accessed 18 May 2021.- “Fatshedera Lizei.” Royal Horticultural Society, https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/267579/Fatshedera-Lizei/Details. Accessed 18 May 2021.- “Fatshedera Lizei.” University of Florida, https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP237. Accessed 18 May 2021.
