Japanese Fatsia (Fatsia japonica): Bold Glossy Foliage for Shade & Indoors

Japanese fatsia (Fatsia japonica, syn. Aralia japonica, A. sieboldii) has very large, hand-shaped glossy leaves that glow in the shade. New leaves fan out on stiff stems along ringed trunks. Flower clusters on older plants attract bees.

Versatile Uses

Makes an excellent houseplant. As Nellie Neal notes in Fine Gardening, it's a regional pick for the Southeast. Provide moist, rich, well-drained soil. Propagate from cuttings or seed. No serious problems.

Quick Reference

• Height/Spread: 3–6 ft.
• Light: Full sun to part shade
• Moisture: Medium
• Maintenance: Low
• Bloom Time: Summer to fall
• Flower Colors: Brown, white
• Foliage: Evergreen
• Uses: Container, indoor plant, hedge, shrub borders