Contents
Description
Fatsia (Fatsia japonica) is an evergreen shrub native to Japan and South Korea. It belongs to the Araliaceae family, which includes other popular houseplants such as Schefflera and Ming Aralia. Fatsia is known for its large, glossy leaves that can grow up to 12 inches wide. It can reach a height of 6 to 10 feet and a width of 5 to 8 feet when grown in ideal conditions. Its flowers are small and white, but they are not its main attraction.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota || Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Angiosperms|| Class| Eudicots|| Order| Apiales|| Family| Araliaceae|| Genus| Fatsia|| Species| F. japonica|
Appearance
The leaves of Fatsia are the most distinctive feature of this plant. They are large, shiny, and deeply lobed, resembling a hand with outstretched fingers. The leaves have a dark green color and a leathery texture. The plant also produces small white flowers in late fall, but they are not very showy. Fatsia can grow up to 10 feet tall and 8 feet wide, making it an impressive presence in any room or garden.
Care Guide
Fatsia is an easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in moderate conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for your Fatsia:- Water: Fatsia prefers moist soil, so water it regularly, but make sure not to overwater it, as it can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Fatsia benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season, which is from spring to fall. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks.- Soil: Fatsia prefers rich, well-draining soil. Use a mix of potting soil and perlite or sand to ensure good drainage.- Sunlight: Fatsia prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.- Hardiness zones: Fatsia can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Fatsia is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still be affected by some problems:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest Fatsia, causing yellowing and browning of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.- Mealybugs: These white, cottony pests can also infest Fatsia, causing stunted growth and leaf drop. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to Fatsia. Make sure to water it only when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Habitat
Fatsia is native to the cool, moist forests of Japan and South Korea. It thrives in well-draining soil and prefers moderate temperatures and humidity levels. Fatsia can grow both indoors and outdoors, as long as it is protected from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Fatsia grow in low light conditions?
A: Fatsia prefers bright, indirect light, but it can tolerate low light conditions. However, it will grow more slowly and produce smaller leaves.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Fatsia?
A: Fatsia benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season, which is from spring to fall. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks.
Q: Can I prune my Fatsia?
A: Yes, you can prune your Fatsia to control its size and shape. Prune it in the spring or fall, and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Q: Can Fatsia survive in cold climates?
A: Fatsia can tolerate cool temperatures, but it is not frost-hardy. It can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11.
Related Plants
– Schefflera- Ming Aralia- Umbrella Tree- Pachira aquatica
References
– “Fatsia Japonica: How to Grow and Care for Japanese Aralia.” Epic Gardening, 20 May 2021, epicgardening.com/fatsia-japonica/.- “Fatsia Japonica.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d408.- “Fatsia Japonica.” The Spruce, 16 Mar. 2021, www.thespruce.com/growing-japanese-aralia-fatsia-japonica-1902776.
